NEWS DIGEST


Non-engagement not an option in GMC revalidation DOCTORS not engaging with the GMC revalidation process could lose


their licence to practise, according to new published guidance to help responsible offi cers make revalidation recommendations about registrants. Revalidation is expected to begin later this year and the new guidance


explains what responsible offi cers should take into account when deciding what their recommendation should be. Responsible offi cers have the ability to make three types of recommendation in regard to a doctor’s revalidation: a positive recommendation, a request for an individual’s revalidation date to be deferred (e.g. if more time is needed to collect supporting information) and a notifi cation of “non-engagement”. The guidance document states that: “A notifi cation of non-engagement can


potentially result in the GMC withdrawing a doctor’s licence to practise, through the existing processes for administrative removal.” But the protocol adds: “Notifi cations of non-engagement are not a mechanism through which concerns about doctors’ fi tness to practise can be raised with the GMC.” It advises responsible offi cers who become aware of concerns about a


doctor’s fi tness to practise at any point in the revalidation to pursue this through the existing GMC processes for raising concerns. The guidance follows publication of a recent report showing that more than 80 per cent of doctors in England are now linked to organisations that can support them with revalidation. The process should start for licensed doctors from April 2013 onwards.


Cosmetic surgery review includes dentistry


TREATMENTS such as tooth whitening, Botox and dermal fi llers have been included in a major Government review on cosmetic surgery. The Department of Health has launched


the broad ranging review in the wake of the PIP breast implant scandal and it could result in tighter regulations of the cosmetic surgery industry including procedures routinely carried out in dental


practices. The Government is asking for views on


the regulation and safety of products used in cosmetic interventions and how best to ensure that practitioners have the necessary skills and qualifi cations, and organisations have systems in place to look after patients both during and after treatment. It will also consider how to make certain that people considering cosmetic surgery and procedures are given the information, advice and time for refl ection needed to make an informed choice, and what improvements are necessary to adequately deal with complaints. Both the BDA and the GDC are expected to submit responses. NHS Medical Director


Professor Sir Bruce Keogh, who is leading the


review, said: “The recent problems with PIP breast implants have shone a light on the cosmetic surgery industry. Many questions have been raised, particularly around the regulation of clinics, whether all practitioners are adequately qualifi ed, how well people are advised when money is changing hands, aggressive marketing techniques, and what protection is available when things go wrong.” A team of experts will assist Sir Bruce


to gather evidence and make recommendations to the Government by next March. Access the review at www. tinyurl.com/9j7b7xK


GMC issues child protection guidance


NEW guidance to help doctors protect children from abuse has been issued by the GMC. Protecting


children and young people: the responsibilities of all doctors is aimed at supporting clinicians dealing with a wide range of complex child protection issues. The guidance makes clear the responsibilities of doctors in this area and advises where they can turn for support. Niall Dickson, Chief Executive of the GMC, said: “Child protection is a complex and emotionally challenging area of practice for any professional, and doctors in particular can fi nd themselves having to make diffi cult and delicate judgements in a charged atmosphere. The decisions made or not made as a result can have far reaching consequences. “We are clear though that doctors must


raise their concerns if they believe a child or young person may be at risk of abuse or neglect - and this applies whether or not the child is their patient. They also need to


● COMPLAINTS RISE AGAINST DOCTORS Complaints about doctors have hit a record high, according to a report from the General Medical Council. The number of complaints increased by 23 per cent in a year, rising from


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7,153 in 2010 to 8,781 in 2011. It continues a trend that has been rising since 2007. Despite the fi gures, the GMC said this does not mean medical standards are falling. The second annual State of Medical Education and Practice in


the UK (SoMEP) report is available on the GMC website. ●“SURGEON” FOR SURGEONS ONLY The Royal College of Surgeons is calling for the job title of “surgeon” to be restricted to doctors with medical degrees and


recognised surgical qualifi cations. An RCS England survey found that 92 per cent of the public agreed that use of the word “surgeon” in a job title should be restricted by law. The study refl ects concern that some healthcare providers use


SUMMONS


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