MDU advice and support

The medical student called the MDU advice line for help. The student was advised by a MDU medico-legal adviser to write a reflective account of what had happened. A statement for a FTP investigation needs to be open, honest and factually correct. This avoids any further allegations of dishonesty. The student was advised to consider her actions and why these had been inappropriate and to provide an apology.

In preparation for writing the statement, the student was advised to read through the GMC’s guidance for doctors, including:

Good medical practice
Achieving good medical practice – this guidance specifically refers to professionalism and the key areas of concern and actions that will undermine the trust patients have in doctors and the public has in the medical profession.

Due to the initial dishonesty that the student had displayed, the case was referred to a FTP panel hearing. The hearing was held remotely, because of the pandemic, rather than in person as would normally be the case. The MDU adviser gave the student specific advice on how to prepare for a remote hearing and also joined the meeting remotely on video.

The student accepted the allegations and apologised for the initial dishonesty and inappropriate behaviour. She gave a good account of herself. She also satisfied the panel that she had learned from this experience and that it was unlikely to be repeated. The student had a clear understanding of not only why her personal behaviour was important but, more so, the paramount importance of being an honest person and how concerns about a doctor’s probity can undermine a patient’s confidence and trust.

The panel explained that due to the dishonesty, she would receive a final written warning. The panel also made it clear the student’s proactive reflection of her own behaviour and sincere apology had been critical to her continuation on the course.

The student was reminded that she would need to inform the GMC of the investigation. The student was strongly advised to ensure that her professionalism was not called into question again. The panel also asked for regular updates on the student’s progress from her supervisors during the remainder of the course.

I broke lockdown rules: now I'm facing a fitness to practise hearing

I broke lockdown rules: now I'm facing a fitness to practise hearing