In light of the outcome of the criminal investigation, I was ecstatic, but knew there was still some way to go. The GMC now had to investigate the matter from a regulatory perspective. Just because I couldn't be convicted beyond a reasonable doubt, it didn't mean that the GMC could not investigate the case - particularly as they work on the balance of probabilities rather than beyond reasonable doubt.

This was something my solicitor, the GMC, and my training programme had mentioned, but in fact it took more time to resolve than the criminal matter itself. The GMC called me back and removed my restrictions, as they said it was a disproportionate response to continue imposing restrictions on me in light of the outcome of the police investigation.

It helped to have an outstanding case support worker at the GMC who would regularly update my solicitor with the progress of where my case had been. He recognised the anxiety I was facing as I was forwarding on letters from my incoming training programme in order to expedite the processing.

The result

About nine months after the fact, I will never forget the day I received the email; 'closed with advice'. I called everyone who knew and I took the day off work. The decision had been made in time so that I deferred to my new training programme and the offer was not revoked.

What I learnt was less obvious. As always, I never intend to intimately examine a child without a chaperone present, but as per GMC guidance, this should also follow for examinations that could be 'perceived' to be intimate, which is a significant wider catchment. If I do a respiratory exam, should a chaperone be in the room? What about a lower limb examination?

I've learnt now that parents are not the best sources as chaperones, and instead you should use trained members of staff. Consultant paediatricians and general practitioners who I've discussed this case with admit that this is incredibly difficult to execute in clinical practice.

This article is based on real events and has been published with permission, but some details have been changed to preserve the anonymity of those involved.

The views expressed in this article are those of the member concerned, and do not necessarily reflect the views and policy of the MDU.

GMC investigation - an MDU member's story

GMC investigation - an MDU member's story