MDU advice

The MDU adviser explained that this type of activity was taken very seriously by medical schools and the GMC, as it raised concerns about a student's probity. As doctors are in a profession where honesty and trust is of utmost importance, this behaviour could be seen to bring the profession into disrepute.

The MDU adviser drew the student's attention to guidance produced by the GMC and Medical Schools Council, which emphasises the importance of honesty and integrity and specifically states: 'Don’t say you have attended teaching sessions if you haven't. And don't ask another student to sign in for you'.

The MDU adviser explained that although the student was being criticised for signing the form, rather than having someone sign on his behalf, this would still be taken seriously and would raise concerns about his probity, and that of his student colleagues.

The MDU adviser recommended that the student review the guidance and write a reflective statement on why his behaviour and that of his colleagues had not been appropriate, making reference to the guidance and the GMC's Good medical practice which doctors are expected to follow, particularly in relation to its guidance on not providing false or misleading information when signing or writing documents.

The MDU adviser assisted the student in preparing his comments for the university. The student admitted to having signed friends in as present on their behalf and having been signed in by others when he did not attend. He sincerely apologised for his behaviour and carefully reflected on his actions, explaining why this had not been appropriate and reassuring the university that this would not happen again.

Faking attendance

faking attendance banner 1

Faking attendance