Commenting on the news about the Court of Appeal decision on Dr Bawa-Garba’s case -
Dr Rob Hendry, Medical Director at the Medical Protection Society (MPS), said:
“We are very pleased the appeal submitted by Dr Bawa-Garba’s legal team has been successful. MPS supported Dr Bawa-Garba for 7 years; we know how much this will mean to her, and to the profession. The strength of feeling on this case amongst our members and the wider healthcare community has been unprecedented.
“It is vital that lessons are now learned to avoid other doctors having to go through the same ordeal. A gross negligence manslaughter conviction should not automatically mean that a doctor who has remediated and demonstrated insight into their clinical failings is erased. The removal of the GMC’s power to appeal MPTS decisions - a recommendation by Sir Norman Williams which was accepted by the Government - must also take effect quickly.
“While we await the introduction of the necessary legislation, the GMC should publicly commit to stop using their power of appeal immediately. This would be a real statement of intent from the GMC as it seeks to regain the trust of the profession. Swift implementation of the William’s review recommendations, and timely completion of the GMC review led by Leslie Hamilton, will be key in rebuilding confidence.”
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About MPS:
The Medical Protection Society (“MPS”) is the world’s leading protection organisation for doctors, dentists and healthcare professionals. We protect and support the professional interests of more than 300,000 members around the world. Membership provides access to expert advice and support together with the right to request indemnity for complaints or claims arising from professional practice.
Our philosophy is to support safe practice in medicine and dentistry by helping to avert problems in the first place. We do this by promoting risk management through our workshops, E-learning, clinical risk assessments, publications, conferences, lectures and presentations. MPS is not an insurance company. All the benefits of membership of MPS are discretionary as set out in the Memorandum and Articles of Association.