Dental professionals > Advice centre > Article title index

Article title index

This index lists all the case histories in the library. Just click on the links to read the case history.

Jump to: Advice articles  Q & A  Case histories  Advice calls  News  Media releases  External relations  

Advice Articles

  • . - 17 June 2008

    You may find these links to third-party websites useful.

  • A burning issue - 27 February 2003

    Recent analysis by the DDU has revealed some common adverse incidents that have caused harm to patients and led to a complaint or even a negligence claim. We look at some of these and at ways of managing risk and learning from mistakes.

  • A doctor’s criminal conviction is never spent - 17 July 2008

    News that an A-grade student had an offer of a place at medical school withdrawn, apparently because of a spent criminal conviction received widespread media attention recently.

  • A guide to guidelines - 1 March 2004

    They are everywhere - local guidelines, national guidelines, guidelines from the Royal Colleges, NHS screening programme guidelines, GMC guidelines, guidelines from NICE the national service frameworks as part of clinical governance. We answer some typical questions from members on the subject.

  • A letter from the GDC - 12 October 2009

    Getting a letter from the GDC saying someone has complained about you can be very worrying. DDU dento-legal adviser Leo Briggs explains the process.

  • A letter from the GMC - 7 September 2009

    Getting a letter from the GMC saying someone has complained about you can be very worrying. MDU medico-legal adviser Dr Helen Burnell explains the process.

  • A passage to India - 1 April 2002

    Katie Wright spent her elective at a teaching hospital in Bangalore where the rules were strict - including a ban on tender coconuts.

  • A review of out of hours complaints and claims in primary care - 1 June 2007

    Since the introduction of the new GP contract in April 2004 the provision of out-of-hours primary medical care has changed radically. Here we highlight some of the factors peculiar to out-of-hours care that can lead to complaints and claims.

  • A student dental elective in Vietnam - 1 December 2008

    King's College London dental student Aliza Jesani traveled to Vietnam to experience at first-hand dental practice in a community where dental hygiene is not top priority for the local inhabitants.

  • Abbreviations should be avoided in medical records - 13 January 2006

    The MDU was recently asked whether it is alright to use abbreviations in medical notes in order to save time. The doctor concerned felt that the time constraints of modern medicine meant that it is difficult to avoid these shortcuts.

  • Access to Health Records Act 1990 - 17 March 2002

    Since the introduction of Data Protection Act 1998, the Access to Health Records Act only applies to the records of deceased patients. There are still however important points you need to know.

  • Access to Medical Reports Act 1988 - 22 March 2002

    The Access to Medical Reports Act 1988 covers reports provided for employment or insurance purposes and has implications for doctors.

  • Accessibility for all on the web - 1 August 2006

    More and more dental practices are setting up their own websites. The Disability Discrimination Act 1999 (DDA) makes it compulsory for services provided to the public to be accessible for all. Specialist web consultancy tmg looks at the Act's implications for websites.

  • Accompanying group foreign travel - 1 April 2003

    Increasing numbers of doctors are asked to accompany groups travelling abroad. We are often asked about the medico-legal issues involved. Dr Paul Colbrook, medico-legal adviser looks at the regulations that need to be adhered to and the implications for members.

  • Acronyms - avoid using them - 10 September 2003

    Recent research reveals that annotating patient notes with insulting or demeaning acronyms is dying out.

  • Addressing complaints about private treatment - 19 May 2006

    The GDC has created a scheme, the Dental Complaints Service (DCS), to consider complaints from patients who are not satisfied with the outcome of local resolution of a complaint about private dental treatment. This article explains both stages of the complaints procedure.

  • Adults with Incapacity (Scotland) Act 2000 - 18 July 2002

    The Act will have a significant impact on the management of patients in Scotland who are unable to consent to treatment. It introduces Welfare Attourneys who can consent on behalf of incapacitated adults and also introduces the need for a Certificate of Incapacity to be issued before any such patient is treated.

  • Advanced restorative treatment - 1 April 2002

    John Cunningham offers DDU members some risk management advice to help improve patient care, and avoid complaints and claims.

  • Adverse drug reactions - 28 June 2007

    Doctors are reminded to exercise caution when managing patients requiring methotrexate after it is reported that 19 people are suspected to have died in the last three years after suffering an adverse reaction to the drug when it was prescribed to treat their rheumatoid arthritis.

  • Adverse incident medication errors - 6 October 2006

    An analysis of adverse incidents reported by MDU members working in primary care over a recent six-month period reveals that 43 incidents related to a problem with medication. These incidents were reported at an early stage, before any other action had been taken e.g. a complaint from the patient.

  • Adverse incident reporting - 12 July 2002

    The MDU's clinical risk managers regularly undertake workshops for PCTs, aimed at all members of the primary healthcare team. These are designed at helping practices control or eliminate risks to patients and staff in the surgery. This is a taster of one of the most requested workshops - Adverse Incident Reporting.

  • Adverse Incident Reporting - the MDU's guide - 9 January 2003

    This is a pdf version of the new practical guide aimed at helping GPs to establish a mechanism for reporting and analysing adverse incidents and near misses in their practice.

  • Advice for GPs seeking inclusion on GMS supplementary lists - 31 May 2002

    The National Health Service (General Medical Services Supplementary List) Regulations 2001 provide that all non-principals providing GMS must be on a supplementary list by 1 June 2002 but what information must you provide?

  • Advice for National Smile Month - 11 April 2007

    National Smile Month (13 May - 12 June 2007) is a time when many dentists organise events to help educate patients and potential patients about good oral hygiene.

  • Aesthetic treatments – the status of hygienists and therapists - 10 September 2009

    The market for non-invasive cosmetic treatments is growing each year. Recent statistics are hard to come by but according to one recent report, Botulinum toxin injections, the most popular procedure, are available in about 20,000 outlets across Britain* and this includes some dental practices.

  • Afraid of the dentist? - 10 September 2003

    For many people a visit to the dentist is a stressful experience. How you deal with these patients can make a major difference to their view of dentistry and the potential dento-legal ramifications following their treatment.

  • Against the odds in southern Africa - 24 April 2009

    For his elective, Tom Kelly, a medical student at Sheffield, witnessed the daily struggle of doctors in Namibia as they sought to cope with the high incidence of HIV and tuberculosis.

  • Alfred the great - 22 April 2009

    Steven Colabella, a medical student at Manchester experienced emergency medicine in one of the most technologically advanced hospitals in the world when he chose the Alfred Hospital in Melbourne, Australia, for his elective.

  • An elective in Australia - 15 November 2005

    Gemma Penford is planning her elective in Australia, thanks in part to winning £1500 in the MDU Electives Competition.

  • An elective in Bangladesh - 19 April 2002

    Amina Rahman is a fifth year medical student at Manchester University. This is her account of her elective in Bangladesh.

  • An elective in Jamaica - 11 March 2003

    Karen Shelbrooke found that Kingston Public Hospital was a world away from the palm-fringed beaches in the tourist brochures.

  • An elective report from Tokyo - 1 July 2007

    Jennifer Kiggins decided to do her elective at the Jikei University School of Medicine as it was closely based on Guys, Kings and Thomas' medical schools.

  • An insight into ophthalmic claims - 1 December 2007

    Over a recent five-year period the MDU opened about 150 files related to ophthalmic conditions reported by members, and many more queries were answered.

  • Anaesthetic breathing systems - 2 August 2002

    Following the news that the CMO is setting up an expert group to investigate why anaesthetic tubing can become blocked, the MDU offers some suggestions on preventing blockages.

  • Answering patients' complaints - 25 September 2002

    Sadly every dental practitioner is likely, at some stage of his or her career, to be the subject of patient complaints. Whatever the nature of the complaint it is clearly in the dentist's and patient's best interests that the matter is resolved swiftly and professionally.

  • Antibiotic prophylaxis - 20 July 2006

    Many dental care professionals will be aware that there is conflicting expert opinion on the need for antibiotic prophylaxis for invasive dental procedures where patients have certain types of cardiac conditions.

  • Anticoagulant alert - 20 April 2007

    Members may recall past warnings from the MDU about the problems that can occur when prescribing anticoagulants.

  • Apologies and legal liability - 10 February 2009

    Members who have contacted the MDU for advice on dealing with a complaint or claim will know that we positively encourage doctors to apologise, if appropriate. The MDU has advised members for over 50 years that, if something goes wrong, patients are entitled to a prompt, sympathetic and above all truthful account of what has happened.

  • Apologies, offers of treatment and other redress - 1 February 2007

    The Compensation Act 2006 received Royal Assent on 25 July 2006. This includes Section 2, which was not in the original Bill but was added after the Government agreed to an amendment proposed by Lord Hunt of the Wirral.

  • Are you licensed for Lourdes? - 26 February 2010

    As Easter approaches many pilgrimages head for Lourdes and other sites of religious significance. Members have asked what the legal and ethical situation is if they accompany such groups and whether they are indemnified.

  • Assessing the DCS - 31 May 2008

    Hugh Smith, head of the Dental Complaints Service (DCS), assesses the DCS’s first months in operation while Rupert Hoppenbrouwers, head of the DDU, gives an alternative perspective on the new complaints resolution service.

  • Automated appointment systems - 1 October 2006

    The MDU has been contacted by a number of practices concerned about the potential breach of patient confidentiality when using automated appointment systems.

  • Avoiding complaints puts a smile on your face - 1 August 2003

    Addressing patient complaints can help dentists safeguard patient safety and care. They can be used as a trigger to alert dentists that something may not be working as it should. Learning from complaints can also help to prevent future complaints.

  • Becoming an associate - 1 May 2005

    If you are in vocational training, it may be daunting to consider the next stage in your career but it is well worth considering your options quite early in the VDP year. The DDU has extensive experience in advising and assisting members in choosing their first associate job.

  • Behind the scenes at the MDU - the Legal Department - 1 September 2003

    As a medical defence organisation and provider of medico-legal advice, the MDU relies on a team of in-house legal specialists. Here, Joanne Brundrett, an MDU solicitor, describes the work of the MDU's Legal Department on behalf of members.

  • Behind the scenes of a dental claim - 29 May 2003

    What happens when the DDU assists a member who has received a letter threatening a claim for negligence? Ian McLaren, a DDU lead claims handler, looks at the process of a typical - but fictitious - claim, from the day of the adverse incident through to final settlement.

  • Behind the scenes of a medical claim - 14 August 2003

    What happens when the MDU assists a member who has received a letter threatening a claim for negligence? Dr Matthew Robson, a senior MDU medical claims handler, looks at the process of a typical - but fictitious - claim, from the day of the adverse incident through to final settlement.

  • Belief in practice - 30 June 2008

    The General Medical Council (GMC) has launched new ethical guidance, Personal Beliefs and Medical Practice, advising doctors how they can ensure their personal beliefs do not adversely affect their relationships with, or treatment of, patients.

  • Beware of wrong tooth extraction - 8 December 2004

    While treating the wrong tooth is a comparatively rare occurrence given the range of treatments carried out by dental professionals, DDU figures show that a significant number of these errors occur each year.

  • Blood transfusions - 5 December 2006

    The National Patient Safety Agency (NPSA) has introduced a safer practice notice designed to improve the safety of blood transfusions.

  • Breaches of confidentiality - 29 October 2004

    Inadvertent breaches of confidentiality are not uncommon, especially when treating patients in the same family. It's vital to remember that any information learned in a professional capacity is confidential.

  • Cardiac consent - 12 July 2005

    A new guide has been launched for cardiac surgeons on obtaining informed consent from adult patients with capacity, undergoing elective cardiac surgery.

  • Careless talk costs careers - 10 September 2009

    Leo Briggs, DDU dento-legal adviser discusses the dangers of DDU members getting involved in social networking websites.

  • Caring for drug addicts in the community - 1 March 2001

    There has been a lot of adverse publicity about doctors treating patients who are drug addicts. Using cases from our files, this article looks at some of the important medico-legal issues and offers some risk management advice.

  • Cauda Equina Syndrome: diagnosis delay and litigation risk - 26 August 2004

    Cauda equina syndrome is an acute surgical emergency. Although an uncommon condition, rarely encountered by most clinicians other than a small number of neurological and orthopaedic surgeons, it is not a difficult syndrome to suspect or investigate and this article should be of interest to a wider audience.

  • Caution on suicide requests - 12 December 2008

    The decision not to prosecute the family of a man who committed suicide at the Dignitas clinic does not change the legal position of doctors.

  • Caution over cautions - 30 June 2008

    Before accepting a police caution, members need to be fully aware of the implications.

  • Caution when involving patients in Significant Event Audit - 2 June 2002

    Significant Event Audit (SEA) and complaints are, strictly speaking, separate processes. Nevertheless, sharing the findings of SEA with a complainant can provide reassurance and help to resolve the complaint at an early stage but caution needs to be exercised in how information is shared.

  • Celebrity patients and confidentiality - 2 March 2009

    The medical treatment given to celebrities has long been a staple of the features sections in many newspapers. However, in recent months, stories about the health of people in the public eye seem to have hit the front pages which can lead to confidentiality dilemmas for the healthcare staff providing care and treatment.

  • Cessation of ventilation - 7 May 2004

    A six year old boy is admitted to the paediatric intensive care after a near drowning. The child is unable to support respiration. After being fully resuscitated he is still unable to survive off ventilation. The parents do not want the ventilator switched off. What should you do?

  • Change in law on controlled drugs - 29 July 2003

    Doctors, drug treatment workers and pharmacists will soon be able to supply cleaning items and other equipment to drug abusers. The change in the law is designed to help prevent disease and infection, the Home Office announced recently.

  • Changes to employment law podcast - 22 July 2009

    In this two part podcast, Mark Owen, a solicitor at Peninsula Business Services, reviews changes to employment law following the introduction of the ACAS Code of Practice that GP principles and practice managers should be aware of. Part one highlights the key changes in the law and part two considers some typical case studies.

  • Changes to GMC registration for doctors over 65 - 1 January 2009

    In 2008, the GMC was advised by leading counsel that it was unlawful to exempt registrants over 65 from paying the annual retention fee (ARF). It removed the exemption with effect from 1 January 2009.

  • Changes to GMC's online register - 5 October 2005

    A number of members have been unhappy with the GMC's decision to remove names from the online doctor search facility while it investigates a complaint. We have raised these concerns with the GMC and understand that some changes are due to be made.

  • Changes to the GMC's online register - 19 July 2005

    The GMC is making changes to its search facility which enables interested parties such as employers and members of the public to check doctors' registration online.

  • Chaperone policies needed in general practice - 20 December 2004

    The recommendations made by the Ayling inquiry and a recent survey in the BMJ have prompted an increase in requests to the MDU for guidance on the use of chaperones.

  • Chaperones and the community paediatrician - 10 July 2002

    "Mummy a strange man asked me to take off my top today." These are the words that could fill any parent with dread. But what if that "strange man" was a community paediatrician and his request was a totally innocent one made while he attempted to carry out a chest examination on a timid child without the benefit of a chaperone?

  • Check registration of DCPs in your practice - 10 September 2009

    The DDU is advising members to check the registration status of Dental Care Professionals in their practice following news that over 4,600 DCP’s have been removed from the GDC’s DCP Register.

  • Checking records - 30 June 2006

    A recent news report claimed that some hospital trusts are seeking to make savings by outsourcing the task of typing doctors' notes.

  • Child protection - 3 July 2006

    While child abuse is an emotive and sensitive issue for any dental professional to deal with, the GDC has made it a requirement for dentists to "find out about local procedures for child protection" and to follow these procedures if they suspect that a child might be at risk because of abuse or neglect.

  • Child protection documents – storage and disclosure - 19 March 2010

    The MDU has received a number of calls from members seeking advice about where to store case conference notes and other documents relating to child protection cases and how to respond to requests for disclosure in such cases. Here are some frequently asked questions.

  • Child protection: medico-legal advice - 19 April 2006

    While to some lay observers it might appear - with the benefit of hindsight - that the issues surrounding child protection cases are quite straightforward, doctors know that such cases are not always clear cut.

  • Childhood Vaccines - 19 November 2008

    GPs and practice nurses should be aware of the regulations and guidance concerning prescribing and administering vaccines to children

  • Children and confidentiality - 1 August 2005

    Confidentiality in the case of children is a potentially confusing area. Legal requirements and GMC guidelines will clarify most cases where consent to disclosure is requested, but GP registrars should be aware of the nuances that can apply if they are to avoid broken promises to their younger patients. Dr Louise Wilson, MDU

  • Civil partnership legislation - 14 December 2005

    The Civil Partnership Act has important implications for doctors when considering questions of consent to treatment and parental responsibility.

  • Clinical Negligence - the legal process explained (MDU booklet) - 1 January 2001

    This pdf version of our guide is designed for members facing allegations of clinical negligence. It's a unique source of information and contains practical and supportive advice for members about all stages of the litigation process.

  • Clinical negligence - your response to litigation - 1 January 2004

    What you are facing now may be one of the most stressful times of your professional life. Many doctors who have gone through clinical litigation tell us that coping with personal feelings at the beginning of the process and at other key points is perhaps the most difficult thing.

  • Clinical negligence claims - a dento-legal briefing - 10 November 2004

    This briefing is designed to help members who face allegations of clinical negligence. Its aim is to support and guide members through what may be a disruptive and distressing process.

  • Clinical negligence claims explained - 12 August 2010

    Having your reputation called into question can be a daunting concept for any dental professional. In this podcast, Debbie Herbst, senior dental claims handler at the DDU, explains how the legal process works.

  • Clinical research - 1 December 2006

    Clinical drug trials have been in the public eye since the terrible outcome of a trial earlier in the year that left six volunteers in intensive care. Doctors who are involved in such trials have an ethical responsibility for ensuring the patient has given their consent.

  • Come join the good samaritans - 28 March 2002

    No matter where you are in the world, would you and should you intervene to help in an unexpected situation? According to the GMC, you may have to.

  • Communication and end–of–life care - 20 November 2009

    Poor communication between doctors, and with patients and relatives, is compromising good end-of-life care according to the National Enquiry into Patient Outcome and Death (NCEPOD), Caring to the End?, published this month.

  • Communication counts - 18 November 2004

    The success of many dentist-patient relationships depends on our ability to communicate. The DDU outlines some practical tips to help you measure your own ability to listen, speak and relate to patients.

  • Communication counts - 24 November 2003

    The success of many doctor-patient relationships depends on our ability to communicate. We provide some practical tips to help you in measuring your own ability to listen, speak and relate to patients.

  • Communication: Dentists and dental technicians - 17 March 2010

    The DDU advice line has received calls from dental professionals who are uncertain about their professional responsibilities when arranging for dental appliances, such as orthodontic braces, crowns and bridges, to be produced by a dental technician.

  • Compensation update - 29 January 2007

    In recent years the number of clinical negligence claims brought against MDU members and settled by us on their behalf has begun to level out, however the size of individual settlement awards continues to increase.

  • Complaint myth-busters - 1 December 2007

    It's an uncomfortable reality that every dental professional is likely, at some stage of his or her career, to receive a patient complaint. While it's natural to feel shock upon receiving a complaint, it's always helpful to have a clear understanding of what has happened and strategies that might be helpful in resolving the complaint.

  • Complaints myth-busters - 1 December 2007

    It's an uncomfortable reality that every dental professional is likely, at some stage of his or her career, to receive a patient complaint. While it's natural to feel shock upon receiving a complaint, it's always helpful to have a clear understanding of what has happened and strategies that might be helpful in resolving the complaint.

  • Completing cremation certificates - 20 January 2004

    Members should be aware that the Home Office has offered new guidance on completing cremation forms, writes MDU medico-legal adviser Dr Paul Colbrook.

  • Concerns over colleagues - 12 April 2010

    A student was worried about one of their fellow medical students and contacted the MDU for advice. The student believed that her friend was drinking excessively and feared he may also be taking drugs.

  • Concordat on genetic testing - 24 March 2005

    Doctors will be able to reassure patients that insurance companies will not be able to use genetic test results used to predict future illness to deny them insurance.

  • Confidentiality - introduction and principles - 1 July 2007

    Confidentiality is an essential part of the bond of trust that exists between doctor and patient. Patients must be certain that information they divulge will be kept confidential. Without this assurance, they may be reluctant to reveal private or sensitive information a medical practitioner needs to provide full and appropriate care.

  • Confidentiality - relative values - 1 September 2003

    Working in general practice can expose you to a variety of situations that you may not have met in the hospital context. One such area is conflicting requests for information about your, or your colleagues', patients.

  • Confidentiality and the police podcast - 22 July 2009

    In general, the police have no more right to confidential information about a patient than anyone else but there are times when doctors should disclose details. Dr Sally Old, MDU medico-legal adviser, looks at a number of different situations that can occur.

  • Confidentiality and the Quality and Outcomes Framework - 25 October 2004

    The Quality and Outcomes Framework is a mechanism by which GP practices may be rewarded for achieving indicators of good clinical care. As part of this process, GPs will be expected to produce disease registers, which may raise new questions about patient confidentiality.

  • Confidentiality in case of criminality - 1 October 2002

    Members are sometimes concerned about the difficulty of maintaining patient confidentiality in certain circumstances. The MDU asked the GMC for its views on hypothetical cases where moral intuition and ethical duties appear to conflict.

  • Confidentiality in child protection - 1 October 1998

    This article talks of GPs involved in child abuse cases, and the medico-legal dilemmas where several family members may be patients

  • Confidentiality of electronic records - 1 October 2006

    Many practices have made the move to a paperless patient record system and this raises questions about the storage and security of electronic patient records (EPRs).

  • Confidentiality of gun owners - 24 June 2010

    Members are being reminded that they may be obliged to breach confidentiality in the public interest if they are concerned that a patient with access to guns may harm themselves or other people.

  • Conscientious objection - 12 April 2010

    A final-year student was carrying out a clinical attachment in her local A&E department. A patient attended for treatment after experiencing heavy bleeding following a termination of pregnancy. The student was reluctant to become involved in the patient's treatment because her religious/personal beliefs meant she had moral objections to abortion.

  • Conscious sedation - 4 July 2007

    New guidance for dental practitioners on the use of conscious sedation.

  • Consent - a question of judgement - 24 May 2004

    Failing to provide a patient with information about a proposed treatment or examination could be regarded as a breach of your duty of care. But how much information should you provide, and how much does a patient need to give their "informed" consent?

  • Consent and capacity when aged 16 to 18 - 10 November 2006

    Teenage patients, within the 16-18 age group, can represent a challenging area when it comes to consent. While in most cases, a doctor can accept the consent of such a patient; it is important to judge each case on its own merits, seeking advice if necessary from a colleague or your medical defence organisation.

  • Consent and young patients - 16 November 2009

    The extremely sad case of Baby RB has highlighted the complexity of the issues surrounding the assessment of the best interests of children who are too young to make decisions for themselves, particularly where there is disagreement between those with parental responsibility.

  • Consent for minor surgery - 24 May 2004

    If you're considering performing minor surgery, you need to understand what information you should provide your patients, and record, in order for them to give their consent.

  • Consent for school dental inspections - 6 July 2006

    The Department of Health (DoH) has warned salaried dentists who carry out dental inspections or epidemiological surveys in schools that it is not sufficient to rely on implied consent (described as "negative consent" in the document) to examine school pupils.

  • Consumer guidelines on plastic surgery - 8 November 2004

    The British Association of Aesthetic Plastic Surgeons has produced a 10-point checklist to help anyone considering plastic surgery to make an educated decision about any treatment and help them to form a realistic idea of what surgery can and cannot achieve.

  • Continuing Professional Development (CPD) - 10 June 2004

    Dentists who fail to complete 250 hours Continuing Professional Development (CPD) over a five-year period, risk being erased from the dental register.

  • Controlled drugs - update on latest guidance - 24 August 2006

    The DDU is reminding all members to consider whether their drugs protocols need to be revised in the light of guidance from the Department of Health (DoH) about private controlled drugs (CDs) prescriptions and dental prescribing.

  • Controlled drugs interim guidance - 23 March 2006

    The Department of Health (DH) has produced interim guidance for doctors who prescribe controlled drugs (CDs) on private prescriptions and for all healthcare professionals who deal with controlled drugs.

  • Coroners amendment rules - 21 June 2005

    New rules about the retention and disposal of human tissue and other samples by pathologists came into effect on 1st June 2005.

  • Coroners' inquiries - An introduction - 13 February 2006

    An inquest is a fact-finding inquiry and not a trial. It is held by the coroner when he decides that a death may not be due to natural causes. You may be asked to submit statements to the coroner about the care and treatment you have provided to patients and if necessary attend inquests as a witness.

  • Coroners' inquiries - Attending an inquest - 13 February 2006

    The inquest is usually held in court premises, but may be held in some other public place. Witnesses are called by the coroner, and not by interested parties.

  • Coroners' inquiries - the verdict - 14 February 2006

    At the end of a jury hearing, the coroner will sum up the evidence which has been given and direct the jury on any points of law that arise.

  • Coroners' inquiries - Writing a report - 13 February 2006

    Most doctors will have to produce at least one written report for a coroner during their professional career. Writing a good report requires skills which differ substantially from those needed to produce a report for clinical purposes.

  • Corporate dentistry - 1 August 2007

    This summer, the General Dental Council (GDC) is planning to launch a list of corporate bodies "carrying on the business of dentistry". This follows the removal of restrictions on the number of dental bodies corporate (DBCs).

  • Corporate manslaughter and corporate homicide bill - 29 January 2007

    The Corporate Manslaughter and Corporate Homicide Bill returned to the House of Commons for its second reading in December. It is intended to make it easier for organisations, including hospital trusts, to be prosecuted if the way their activities are managed or organised by senior management causes death from a gross breach of duty.

  • Cosmetic procedures - 26 February 2007

    Before offering services such as administering botulinum toxin and dermal fillers, thread vein treatment and tattoo removal, it is essential to be aware of the legal and ethical implications.

  • Could you cope with an IT systems failure? - 11 August 2006

    With increasing reliance on electronic records, the DDU is advising members to ensure they have a clear recovery plan in place in case of IT failures.

  • Could you cope with an IT systems failure? - 8 August 2006

    With increasing reliance on electronic records, the MDU is advising members to ensure they have a clear recovery plan in place in case of IT failures.

  • Court of Appeal child abuse decision - 10 September 2003

    A recent ruling in the Court of Appeal means that doctors and social workers may owe a common law duty of care to a child when investigating suspected child abuse.

  • Cryotherapy caution - 1 December 2006

    Claims frequently result from routine minor surgical procedures including the use of cryotherapy.

  • Dangers of inaccurately transcribed records - 19 February 2007

    Medical records are important. They should give a clear, accurate picture of patient care and treatment, so aiding communication between doctors and their colleagues and reminding doctors of the care they provided.

  • Dangers of Sleep-working - 10 February 2009

    A new study highlighting the benefits of a good night’s sleep concludes that doctors taking appropriate rest made a third fewer errors, which may have benefits for patient safety.

  • Data published on adverse incidents - 2 October 2006

    The National Patient Safety Agency (NPSA) has recently published an audit of serious and untoward events, adverse incidents and near misses reported to its national reporting and learning system (NRLS) by health workers in the NHS.

  • DDU claims checklist - 1 December 2000

    Download and use this pdf checklist when writing to notify us of a claim

  • DDU membership for nurses explained - 1 May 2008

    The General Dental Council (GDC) has introduced compulsory registration for dental nurses, dental technicians, clinical dental technicians and orthodontic therapists.

  • Dealing with dental tourism - 31 May 2008

    From this summer dental nurses must register with the General Dental Council (GDC). DDU dento-legal adviser Leo Briggs considers two fictional dilemmas illustrating responsibilities facing both nurses and dentists in the changing regulatory landscape.

  • Dealing with the media podcast - 22 July 2009

    Medicine is one of the few professions where the consequences of a mistake may be publicised in the newspapers. In this podcast, Dr Helen Burnell, an MDU medico-legal adviser, provides advice for members who find themselves in the media spotlight.

  • Decontamination checklist published - 16 September 2009

    The Department of Health (DoH) has published a new self-assessment checklist for dental professionals to help them gauge whether their surgery is compliant with latest infection prevention and control standards.

  • Defibrillators in GP surgeries - 5 March 2002

    A number of GPs are concerned that they might be found negligent if they do not provide a defibrillator in the surgery in case a patient suffers a myocardial infarction. Is there a legal duty?

  • Delay in diagnosing Lyme disease - 4 June 2007

    The MDU is warning its members to ensure they consider a diagnosis of Lyme disease, which is most common in Spring and Summer.

  • Delay in diagnosing malaria - 16 June 2006

    With the peak holiday season now approaching, and increasing numbers of people travelling to malaria endemic destinations, the MDU advises doctors to ensure they exclude the diagnosis of malaria in patients returning from countries where the disease is prevalent.

  • Delayed diagnosis - meningitis and infections - 22 August 2006

    The very nature of the work of a GP means that diagnoses will occasionally be missed or seemingly delayed, which means that GPs inevitably live with a degree of uncertainty. Understandably, if a delay or missed diagnosis occurs patients need an explanation particularly if the outcome is poor or unexpected.

  • Delayed diagnosis in general practice of trauma and orthopaedic conditions - 5 September 2006

    A new analysis of 620 MDU GP claims files relating to delay or failure in diagnosis settled in a recent five-year period shows that trauma and orthopaedic problems were the third most frequent cause of delayed diagnosis claims against GPs - only surpassed by failure or delay in diagnosing malignancy or infection.

  • Delayed diagnosis in primary care - 1 August 2008

    The very nature of the work of a GP means that GPs inevitably live with a degree of uncertainty and diagnoses will occasionally be missed or seemingly delayed. Understandably, if something goes wrong and a delay or missed diagnosis occurs patients may need an explanation, particularly if the outcome is poor or unexpected.

  • Delegating tasks to DCPs - 1 October 2007

    In July 2006, the list of "permitted duties" for dental hygienists and dental therapists, which set out what these groups could and could not do, was abolished under amendments to the Dentists Act 1984, one of a number of changes to the way dentistry was regulated in the UK.

  • Delegation and referral - 27 February 2008

    At first glance, delegating tasks to more junior members of the hospital team may seem straightforward. However, the MDU regularly receives queries from consultants about their responsibilities in this area.

  • Dental advertising - 10 July 2006

    Advertising your practice can be an ethical and legal minefield and is regularly the subject of calls to the DDU advisory helpline.

  • Dental recall intervals - a matter of clinical need - 8 January 2007

    Members have contacted us for advice about the recommended interval between dental check-ups and in what circumstances the responsibility for setting recall intervals can be delegated to another member of the dental team.

  • Dental treatment overseas - 23 January 2008

    As more patients travel overseas for dental treatment, what advice should be given to them?

  • Dentists under scrutiny - 3 November 2004

    Dental professionals are subject to more regulation than ever before - from patient and consumber organisations, government, and increasingly from the media. We examine how this affects dental professionals.

  • Dentists who fail to meet CPD requirements may face erasure - 12 December 2006

    The first dentists to join the GDC's compulsory Continuing Professional Development (CPD) scheme in 2002 are now approaching the end of their first five-year CPD cycle and may soon be asked to provide evidence that they have complied with the scheme.

  • Diabetes, hypoglycaemia and driving - 23 August 2007

    Members are reminded of the importance of ensuring that patients with diabetes are advised appropriately about driving and their responsibilities regarding the DVLA.

  • Disclosing patient information to third parties - 16 October 2007

    To disclose or not to disclose patient information? That is a question which is frequently put to DDU dento-legal advisers, particularly when the information is requested by a Primary Care Organisation (PCO), NHS Business Services Authority (NHSBSA) or private funding scheme such as Denplan.

  • Disclosure of children's medical records - 22 March 2002

    When disclosing children's records there are a number of considerations including the age of the child, whether they understand the implications and also the marital status of the parents.

  • Disclosure of medical records for court proceedings - 22 March 2002

    Where a patient wants disclosure of medical records for a court case there are likely to be two scenarios - one where the action is against a third party and one where the doctor is the defendent.

  • Disposing of patient records - 2 April 2008

    The recent discovery of over 3000 patient records on a landfill site illustrates the risks associated with the disposal of confidential records

  • Do disclaimers work? - 1 December 2007

    Before you read this article, please study the following disclaimer: The writer recommends that readers select a comfortable chair in which to read this article. The writer cannot be held liable for any aches or pains resulting from any reader's decision to read the article in a chair without a proper back support.

  • Doctor in defence - a member's diary - 1 September 2003

    Defending a claim of medical negligence can be a gruelling affair striking at the very heart of a doctor's professionalism. In this unique anonymised diary, chronicling a seven-day hearing, an MDU member gives a defendant's-eye view of the emotional switchback of the courtroom proceedings.

  • Doctor's signatures - 4 August 2004

    Doctors are being reassured by the MDU that their signatures on documents that have legal status do not necessarily have to be legible to be valid. If their signature is not legible however, then it is sensible to print their name underneath.

  • Doctors as managers - 5 July 2001

    Members increasingly seek advice about their dual roles as clinicians and managers. Dr Rupert Lee, one of the MDU's clinical risk managers, gives the MDU's view.

  • Doctors face growing media scrutiny - 20 August 2004

    Doctors are increasingly being approached by journalists for their reaction to patients' allegations about treatment, or for further information about patients' care.

  • Doctors subject to new GMC procedures - 11 November 2004

    The new fitness to practise procedures are a radical overhaul of the old procedures. There are numerous changes, two of which caused the MDU some concern during the consultation stage.

  • Doctors supervising nurses during prescribing training - 19 March 2003

    GPs and hospital doctors must be suitably qualified to supervise the growing number of nurses and midwives who want to train to prescribe from the nurse prescriber’s extended formulary or act as supplementary prescribers.

  • Doctors volunteering as Olympic 'Games Makers' - 17 August 2010

    With two years to go until the start of the London 2012 Olympic Games, the organisers have launched a campaign for volunteers, including medically skilled professionals, who will act as ‘Games Makers’.

  • Doctors with managerial roles - 25 June 2002

    In the course of their career some doctors will assume managerial roles either within the NHS or in the private sector. This article looks at some of the questions that the MDU is regularly asked about doctors who take on additional responsibilities.

  • Doctors' SupportLine: Help in a time of need - 21 April 2006

    While many of you view the MDU's 24 hour medico-legal advisory helpline as a vital doctors' support line, there is another valuable advice resource available, offering doctors a chance to talk to someone about a range of concerns such as burnout, depression and overload, as well as problems with their personal life.

  • Does NHS indemnity cover good samaritan acts? - 13 August 2002

    An off-duty doctor who tried unsuccessfully to resuscitate a man who had taken a drug overdose contacted the MDU when the dead man's girlfriend complained that he had not done enough to save him. In situations like this what cover does NHS indemnity provide?

  • DoH relaxes rules on background checks - 30 September 2002

    The Department of Health has relaxed the rules to enable healthcare workers to start working with children while full background checks are completed.

  • Draft coroners bill published - 1 December 2006

    A radical reform of the coroner's court system in England and Wales will create a cadre of full-time coroners and allow bereaved people to challenge coroners' decisions via a scheme overseen by a Chief Coroner.

  • Elective in Games City - 1 October 1998

    This articles talks of the experiences of a student undertaking an elective in Malaysia. Interesting cross-cultural comparisons and views.

  • Electives guide - staying healthy abroad - 1 January 2006

    Before you travel, there are a number of precautions you should take in case of sickness. These include getting travel insurance, having the necessary jabs and packing your medical kit.

  • Electives guide - staying healthy abroad - 6 January 2006

    Before you travel, there are a number of precautions you should take in case of sickness. These include getting travel insurance, having the necessary jabs and packing your medical kit.

  • Electronic record keeping - 1 May 2008

    The entire practice team should be aware of the law and best practice surrounding electronic practice records (EPRs).

  • Electronic signatures - 4 February 2003

    Members should exercise caution when using computerised "e-signatures" to sign documents where the signature may need to be authenticated at a later date. Certificates, prescriptions and wills for example, may need to be signed by hand.

  • End–of–life care in Scotland – advance care planning - 14 July 2010

    Doctors have a clear ethical duty to discuss sensitively with patients and – if appropriate - their families what treatments may be clinically appropriate and of overall benefit to a patient at the end of their life and what interventions may be futile, unwanted or cause them unnecessary distress.

  • Endodontics in Iowa City - 1 April 2000

    Giles Round set off for his elective in the States expecting a peaceful period of research into root canal treatment. But the Iowa weather turned out to be more than he bargained for.

  • Epilepsy driving bans - 30 July 2003

    According to a recent news story, US researchers are questioning whether epilepsy patients need to wait for a year after a seizure to reapply for a driving license. However this does not alter current DVLA guidance.

  • Ethical and legal implications of new GP contract - 26 April 2004

    While many of the debates about the new GP contract have focused on the financial implications, there are also professional, ethical and legal implications which GPs need to be aware of.

  • Ethical dilemmas for Armed Forces Doctors - 8 July 2009

    There are 997 Medical Officers (MOs)* employed by the Defence Medical Services, a division of the Ministry of Defence which is responsible for the provision of healthcare to around 258,000 people**, including service personnel and their families. Non-uniformed civilian medical practitioners and locum doctors are also employed.

  • Ethics in practice - 24 June 2003

    Mark G Brennan, Lecturer in Medical and Dental Education at the University of Wales College of Medicine, takes a closer look at the GMC's "Duties of a Doctor" and asks a group of registrars for their opinions.

  • Exercise care with directory services - 25 August 2010

    A number of medical and dental members have sought our advice after becoming embroiled in disputes with companies providing directory services.

  • Explaining fees - 1 December 2000

    This article talks about the importance of the agreement with patients over fees, and the responsibility of explaining the fees. Also offers a case history and risk management advice

  • Extended nurse prescribing - what you need to know - 1 December 2007

    As the pressure increases on primary care to provide wider ranging and more diverse medical services, the role of the practice nurse has also changed and many now find themselves carrying out a wider range of clinical duties, including prescribing.

  • Faculty launches guidance on latex allergy - 13 December 2004

    Dental healthcare workers should be made aware of natural rubber latex (NRL) allergy so they can take steps to protect themselves and are able to manage the patients who suffer from this condition.

  • False or misleading sick notes - 2 June 2004

    A recent court case has highlighted the dilemma GPs face when writing sick notes. The case involved a city trader who claimed damages from her employers reportedly for the stress caused by her job.

  • Female circumcision - 28 August 2001

    Female circumcision in the United Kingdom is illegal and any doctor involved in referral for or actual operative procedure risks criminal charges, warns the MDU

  • Fine tuning the next generation: the role of the VT - 31 May 2008

    Vocational training can be rewarding. It can also be a challenge, not least in the dentolegal issues it raises for vocational trainers (VTs), writes Dr Anne M Milarvie, Vocational Teacher of the Year in the 2007 DDU Educational Awards.

  • First aid - 12 April 2010

    A final year medical student asked the MDU whether he could be a First Aider at his local church youth group. He was unsure if his medical education and student experience would be suitable or whether he should get some accredited training from a first aid charity such as Red Cross or St John Ambulance.

  • Fit note advice lines introduced - 27 July 2010

    Doctors getting to grips with the new ‘fit note’ form (MED 3), which replaced the traditional sickness certificate on 6 April this year, can now access occupational health advice lines.

  • Fit notes replace sick notes - 8 March 2010

    From 6 April 2010, doctors will be asked to provide ‘fit notes’ for patients rather than the traditional sickness certificates.

  • Fitness to practise - 1 February 2007

    The General Dental Council (GDC) has recently introduced new rules to govern how it regulates the dental profession. This article explores the main changes and explains how the new rules will work in practice.

  • Five good practice tips that may help to avoid complaints - 6 January 2006

    Most GPs will receive at least a couple of complaints in a professional lifetime. But there are aspects of good practice that may help avoid a complaint and, when a complaint is received GPs can learn from it to try to prevent the same issue being cause for complaint more than once.

  • Flexible working - 31 October 2008

    Peter Done, managing director of Peninsula writes: The right to request flexible working arrangements was originally set out in the Employment Act 2002 and implemented in 2003. However the obligations placed on employers have expanded and, if you employ practice staff, it is important that you are aware of the implications.

  • Flu vaccine dilemmas - 24 October 2005

    With the flu jab season in full swing and public sensitivities heightened by the on-going concerns over H5N1 avian influenza being passed to humans, MDU members have sought our advice on flu vaccination.

  • FOI Publication Scheme 2009 - 6 January 2009

    From 1 January 2009, all public authorities, including NHS bodies such as hospital trusts and GP practices, must follow new regulations from the Information Commissioner about what information they should make routinely available to the general public under the Freedom of Information Act 2000.

  • For the record - 12 July 2006

    Clear, accurate, legible and contemporaneous - the GMC Guidelines on patient records are simple and self-explanatory. Even so, there is ample scope for omission or misinterpretation and this may only come to light some time later if a complaint or claim is made.

  • Freedom of Information (Scotland) Act 2002 - 23 December 2003

    The Scottish Freedom of Information legislation may affect members based in Scotland. Further information is expected from the Scottish Executive Health Department and the Scottish Information Commissioner.

  • Freedom of Information Act - 21 August 2003

    By the end of October 2003, dentists carrying out any NHS general dental service (GDS) work will need to publish certain information under the Freedom of Information Act 2000, which applies to England, Wales and Northern Ireland.

  • GDC conduct procedures - 19 November 2003

    Few dentists would have an intimate understanding of how the GDC considers a complaint against a dentist. Tamsin Thomas, an in-house solicitor, gives a detailed explanation of the four stages of the conduct procedures.

  • GDC proposes non-NHS complaints procedure - 7 December 2004

    The General Dental Council is planning to establish a new complaints system for private patients for complaints which cannot be resolved by the practice itself. The proposal formed part of the Department of Health's consultation, Strengthening the GDC: A paper for consultation, which closed at the end of October 2004.

  • GDC publishes student fitness to practise guidance - 7 July 2010

    While dental students understandably want to make the most of their time in further education, the DDU has always advised student members to be aware of the potential repercussions for their career if they find themselves facing a disciplinary process or in trouble with the law, even if relating to an incident which is seemingly trivial.

  • GDC scope of practice guidance - 8 April 2009

    Dental professionals should familiarise themselves with new General Dental Council (GDC) guidance that sets out the skills and competencies that each member of the dental team should have.

  • Gender Recognition Act - 8 April 2005

    The MDU is advising doctors to be aware of an amendment to The Gender Recognition Act 2004, which came into effect in April 2005, and which sets out the conditions under which doctors can disclose information about a transsexual patient.

  • Generic drugs name change - 14 November 2003

    Hundreds of generic and non-proprietary drugs and medicinal products are having their names changed from December to bring the UK into line with Europe.

  • Georgia on my mind - 2 September 2000

    Negin Shamsian split her US elective between medical journalism at a cable TV station and a real life ER.

  • Gillick competence challenged - 25 May 2004

    The recent case of the 14-year-old girl whose mother complained to the media when she discovered that her daughter had an abortion without her knowledge sparked a national debate about children's rights to confidentiality.

  • Giving patients all the options on fees - 18 October 2007

    A newspaper story claimed that some dental patients are paying more for NHS treatment than they would pay if the same treatment were provided privately. This raises the question should a dentist advise a patient of all treatment options, including private?

  • GMC - Conduct proceedings - 1 August 2001

    This article provides information and function of The Preliminary Proceedings committee and the Professional conduct committee

  • GMC GP register - 21 December 2005

    From April 2006 all doctors who wish to work in NHS general practice must be on a new GMC GP register. The GMC says this is to bring together all the doctors eligible to work in general practice into a single place.

  • GMC guidance on taking up and ending appointments - 23 May 2008

    Junior doctor members who have been applying for specialty training posts, and others planning the next stage of their career, may find it useful to be aware of some new advice which has been published on the GMC website.

  • GMC introduces new rules to dispose of cases - 7 January 2008

    In December 2007 the GMC changed its fitness to practise (FTP) procedures, widening its powers to dispose of cases consensually, at the investigation stage, by agreeing binding undertakings with the doctor, rather than referring for a public hearing.

  • GMC publishes new guidance on treating under 18s - 23 October 2007

    The GMC has published new guidance for doctors treating children. The guidance entitled; 0-18 years: guidance for all doctors, highlights that doctors should always act in the best interests of children and young people and explains how to assess best interests, which may not always be straightforward.

  • Golden rules of medico–legal practice for students - 15 April 2002

    Even as a medical student you should be aware of medico-legal issues that may affect you. This article looks at the rules regarding confidentiality, consent and note taking. It's vital information to help you avoid problems.

  • Good Samaritan acts - 12 April 2010

    A medical student contacted the MDU to ask whether her membership covered her for Good Samaritan acts. She was due to conduct her elective in Australia, but also planned to travel extensively in south-east Asia beforehand. A friend had told her they would refuse to get involved in an emergency in case they were sued.

  • Good Samaritan doctors - 27 July 2006

    A story reported this week, where an off-duty doctor assisted when an inflatable "air sculpture" tore away from its moorings, shows that a doctor can be called upon at any time to assist. Here we look at the medico-legal position of Good Samaritan acts.

  • GP certificates - 9 July 2003

    When a patient asked for a medical certificate saying he was fit enough for an aromatherapy massage, his GP called the MDU's advisory service to ask if he was obliged to provide one.

  • GP partnerships: an elusive jackpot - 30 June 2008

    In the third of a series of articles on interview preparation, Olivier Picard, managing director of ISC Medical, a company specialising in interview skills coaching for doctors, gives some useful advice for doctors considering applying for a partnership position in general practice.

  • GP risk management survey - 27 August 2002

    The MDU carried out a survey of risk management systems in 330 general practices. Overall the results were encouraging but the survey highlighted some areas where practices risk failing CHI performance reviews. There were also a number of areas where small improvements may make a big difference to patient care.

  • GPs going to war - 5 March 2003

    The Department of Health has clarified what arrangements should be put into place in the event of GPs being called up to serve in a war with Iraq. It follows enquiries from PCTs about temporary provisions for GPs absent in time of war.

  • GPs providing dental treatment - 5 April 2006

    The MDU is advising its GP members to exercise caution if asked to provide dental treatment out of hours.

  • GPs referring patients for exercise - 3 March 2009

    GPs are being encouraged to prescribe physical activity as part of a new Department of Health drive to avoid some of the 9,000 deaths a year believed to be directly related to obesity.

  • Guidance on electronic records - 2 May 2007

    In April, the Department of Health published two guidance documents which set out doctors' duties regarding the use of IT equipment and the security of electronic records.

  • Guidance published on use of CBCT Scanners - 11 November 2009

    Dentists who are considering the installation of cone beam computed tomography (CBCT) scanners for implant and other specialist procedures, should be aware of interim radiological protection guidance from the Health Protection Agency (HPA).

  • Guidelines for good records - 12 July 2002

    Some basic rules for good record keeping including the use of abbreviations, dictation and legible handwriting.

  • Gunshot after gunshot - 24 April 2009

    Louise Rushbrook, a student at Leicester, chose Johannesburg, the trauma capital of the world, for her elective destination and was rewarded with a mass of hands-on clinical experience she could never have obtained at home.

  • Hand surgery in Sydney - 6 March 2009

    Nick Peterson, a previous medical student at Liverpool chose to work in a specialist orthopaedic hand unit at the Royal North Shore Hospital in Sydney, Australia, for his elective.

  • Handling complaints - 9 April 2010

    A medical student found herself the subject of a patient complaint and contacted the MDU for guidance.

  • Helping members with the media - 1 March 2006

    Widely known as an expert provider of advice, support and legal representation, the MDU also has a dedicated press office.

  • Highlights of the new GMC prescribing advice - 1 December 2006

    Last year, the GMC published its latest advice on prescribing, which - unlike the previous version in question-and-answer format - is in the form of straightforward advice. Here, we highlight some of the new document’s most important points.

  • HIV and confidentiality - 23 May 2005

    A recent newspaper report that an HIV patient, who kept his condition secret and subsequently infected his partner, has been jailed for three years raises an interesting question - can a doctor reveal a patient's HIV status to protect an uninfected partner?

  • HIV and patient confidentiality - 14 May 2003

    In a case widely reported in Australia, a woman whose husband infected her with HIV and hepatitis B, is suing her GPs in the Supreme Court of Australia, in what is reported as a challenge to the legal protection of doctor-patient confidentiality.

  • HIV Positive healthcare workers and confidentiality - 3 December 2001

    Following a change in policy by the Department of Health, patients will no longer be automatically notified if they come into contact with an HIV positive healthcare worker. Instead each case will be assessed individually.

  • HIV tests for healthcare workers - 13 January 2003

    The MDU is calling for tough safeguards to ensure that doctors and other healthcare workers undergoing compulsory HIV, hepatitis B & C or tuberculosis testing retain the same rights of confidentiality as other patients.

  • Home Visits - 15 July 2009

    While the surgery is undoubtedly the best place for a GP consultation to take place, GPs will still make home visits where patients are genuinely housebound or where it is medically necessary.

  • Hospital disciplinary procedures - 24 March 2005

    The final three parts of new hospital disciplinary framework have now been published and will come in to force on 1 June 2005.

  • Hospital Trusts must report patient safety incidents - 24 March 2010

    The regulation of health and adult social care in England is about to change. The Care Quality Commission (CQC), the new independent regulator, was set up in 2009 to regulate care provided by NHS trusts, local authorities, the independent sector and voluntary organisations.

  • House of Lords child abuse decision - 26 April 2005

    The House of Lords recently upheld a Court of Appeal decision that parents wrongly accused of abusing their children cannot sue the doctors or social workers who made the decision.

  • How can the MDU help me to correct misleading information? - 27 July 2009

    MDU members occasionally request advice if misleading information about them has been published or if they think they have been defamed. The offending information may have been published in the press, on the internet or in another public place or document and the member wishes to have some kind of correction published.

  • How MDU subscriptions are set - 1 September 2003

    The MDU provides its members with a level and quality of service and support that is second to none. Here we review the various elements that are taken into account when setting members' yearly subscriptions.

  • How safe are you? - 1 September 2003

    When seeing patients in isolation, such as on home visits there are a number of issues you can take into account to lessen the risk of situations that lead to violence.

  • How safe is my data? - 11 November 2001

    The MDU regularly receives enquiries in relation to patient records stored electronically. Here we look at a few commonly asked questions and the advice we give.

  • How to survive dental education - 1 March 2000

    This article provides tips and hints on how to make the most of dental education. Practical advice on how to solve problems and plan more effective learning experiences.

  • Human rights act 1998 - 1 October 2000

    Charles Dewhurst, head of MDU legal services, gives a guide to the likely effects of the Human Rights Act, which comes into force in October 2000.

  • Human Tissue Act 2004 - 1 December 2006

    The Human Tissue Act 2004, the main provisions of which came into force on 1 September 2006, was developed to rationalise and update the law relating to the use of tissue and organs.

  • Improving patient safety - 30 September 2004

    Two-thirds of doctors, nurses and managers say better communication between staff and patients is priority for improving patient safety according to a new poll.

  • Incapacity and the law in Scotland - 21 January 2010

    The DDU regularly receives calls from members who are uncertain about a patient’s capacity to consent or who want to know whether they can provide treatment to an adult patient without capacity.

  • Incapacity and the law in Scotland - 27 November 2009

    The MDU regularly receives calls from members who are uncertain about a patient’s capacity to consent or who want to know whether they can provide treatment to an adult patient without capacity.

  • Indemnity for ships doctors - 20 August 2004

    Members working in circumstances that are out of the ordinary - such as on a cruise ship need to ensure that they notify the MDU and are fully covered for clinical indemnity.

  • Infection control in general practice - 6 July 2002

    The MDU's clinical risk managers regularly undertake workshops for PCTs, aimed at all members of the primary healthcare team. These are designed at helping practices control or eliminate risks to patients and staff in the surgery. This articles looks at one of the popular workshops covering Infection Control.

  • Information sharing following an unexpected child death - 12 December 2008

    Following the unexpected death of a child, a doctor who has been involved in the child's care might be asked to attend an information-sharing and planning meeting where their care could be called into question.

  • Injection errors - 14 March 2006

    The MDU is reminding members about the importance of exercising caution when administering injections following a number of recent cases reported in the media.

  • Inland revenue requests - 24 March 2010

    HM Revenue and Customs (HMCR) has said that from April 2010 it will be carrying out ‘’targeted investigations aimed at medical professionals” who, it believes, may not have declared their full income*.

  • Ireland – Pandemic flu and indemnity - 16 November 2009

    In Ireland, the national H1N1 Vaccination Programme will begin on 2 November 2009 and participating GPs are expected to have enough vaccine to begin vaccinating at-risk patients at the end of October.

  • Irish doctors' new ethical guidelines - 23 April 2004

    The Medical Council's new guidance on ethical conduct and behaviour contains some significant additions to reflect both the growth in the use of modern communication technology and the popularity of complimentary therapies.

  • Is there a dentist on the plane? - 1 April 2008

    A passenger needs urgent medical attention and the airline is looking for someone to offer assistance. Should you as a qualified dentist offer to help?

  • Is your computer secure? - 19 March 2003

    Members are reminded they need to be vigilant in the storage of medical records on computer and in disposing of old equipment.

  • Keeping a watchful eye - 1 May 2008

    There are 4.2 million CCTV cameras in the UK according to a report commissioned by the Information Commissioner. While many are in public places such as shopping centres, parks and streets, some GP surgeries have chosen to install CCTV cameras as a crime prevention and security measure, usually in surgery waiting areas and car parks.

  • Keeping data confidential - 1 August 2005

    Data is protected, but it is not sacrosanct. There are increasing calls on GPs to disclose patient data for quality monitoring, service improvement and other non-clinical uses. The implications for patient confidentiality are significant.

  • Key features of the new complaints procedure - 20 April 2009

    A new NHS and social care complaints procedure was introduced in England on 1 April this year and here we summarise the key points of which members should be aware.

  • Laser eye surgery - 6 September 2004

    While laser eye surgery is becoming increasingly popular - around 100,000 people undergo the procedure every year - claims related to the procedure now account for a third of all ophthalmology claims on the MDU's files.

  • Last wishes - 4 October 2005

    The GMC makes clear that all doctors must respect the right of patients to be fully involved in decisions about their care.

  • Legal representation - 1 June 2001

    This article gives advice as to when doctors and healthcare workers may need legal representation

  • Legal status of NICE guidelines - 15 April 2002

    MDU members often ask what the legal status of NICE guidelines are and if they are obliged to follow them.

  • Let's communicate - 1 September 2003

    Getting your message across, in the right way, to patients, relatives, colleagues and administrators, is an elusive art but an essential skill for all doctors.

  • Lifestyle and access to treatment - 20 December 2005

    Drinking, smoking and other lifestyle factors may contribute to or exacerbate many of the conditions which doctors see in patients every day. However, while this may be a frustration, it should not influence the patient's access to treatment.

  • Lipostabil treatment - 19 July 2005

    Following concerns raised by the Medicines and Healthcare products Regulatory Agency (MHRA) about the subcutaneous use of the drug Lipostabil, the MDU is issuing advice to its members.

  • Long term therapy - failure to monitor - 1 January 1998

    This article provides an outline of a study into GP claims relating to medication and specifically to problems with the monitoring of long term medication

  • Maintaining and disclosing patient records - 2 July 2004

    Patient records are used at every consultation and provide an accurate picture of patient treatment and care. They can also provide vital evidence if the standard of that care is called into question. We look at how long records should be retained and patients right of access and disclosure.

  • Maintaining and disclosing patient records - 10 February 2010

    Patient records are used at every consultation and provide an accurate picture of patient treatment and care. They can also provide vital evidence if the standard of that care is called into question.

  • Making the NHS safer for patients - the NPSA - 1 May 2002

    Professor Rory Shaw, chairman of the National Patient Safety Agency, explains how it aims to improve patient safety by working with other agencies and with staff in all areas of the NHS to reduce the risk of harm through error.

  • Making your website accessible to all - 1 May 2007

    More and more practices are setting up their own websites. The Disability Discrimination Act 1999 (DDA) makes it compulsory for services provided to the public to be accessible for all.

  • Managing your money as a dental student - 1 May 2005

    For many, owing money is a pre-requisite of student life and juggling scarce resources becomes something of an art. How are you, a student, supposed to cope and deal with the numerous conflicting financial demands?

  • Managing your money as a medical student - 1 April 2003

    For most, owing money is part of student life and juggling scarce resource becomes something of an art. Mark Brennan gives some useful tips on dealing with the financial pressures.

  • MDU advice on completing insurance reports - 28 January 2003

    In December 2002, the ABI and BMA produced new guidance on completing insurance reports. There are however a couple of areas where MDU advice differs.

  • MDU believes insurance should be mandatory - 18 April 2006

    The MDU believes that only a regulated insurance policy or NHS indemnity provides adequate indemnity for the protection of doctors, patients and the public.

  • MDU claims checklist - 1 December 2000

    Download and use this pdf checklist when writing to notify us of a claim

  • MDU tips on computer security - 23 June 2006

    With increasing amounts of sensitive information set to be put in electronic format, the MDU is advising members to ensure their own IT security practices are robust.

  • MDU tracker system - 19 March 2002

    Evidence from the MDU’s database shows that delayed diagnosis is one of the most common reasons for a claim being made against GPs. In many cases the delay is frequently not due to clinical error but a simple failure to track the patient.

  • Medical advice online - 25 July 2001

    We receive a number of enquiries from members asking about their legal and ethical position when providing online medical advice. While we cannot endorse or approve members' websites, there are a number of points to consider.

  • Medical Council ring the changes - 25 November 2009

    For over 20 years, the Medical Council has issued guidance for doctors on ethical conduct and behaviour. Such guidance is rarely static in nature as it reflects changes to statute and case law as well as the views of society and the profession.

  • Medical emergencies and defibrillators - 3 July 2007

    A number of members have asked whether they need to have a defibrillator in their practice in case of medical emergency. While it is not the DDU's role to set clinical standards, we can draw members’ attention to the relevant guidance.

  • Medical equipment safety: not left to its own devices - 1 April 2003

    Enormous sums are spent each year on medical equipment in the health service, not only in acquiring it but also in its maintenance, which is crucial to its safe use. Dr Susanne Ludgate, Medical Director at the Medical Devices Agency, explains how the agency works to protect both those who use such devices — and those on whom they are used.

  • Medical officers at sporting events - 23 April 2004

    We receive a number of enquiries about members acting as medical officers at sporting events. We are happy to advise members individually, but hope the following information will clarify a number of points.

  • Medical records - disclosure and retention in Ireland - 31 January 2005

    One of the main reasons that doctors contact the MDU is for advice on disclosing copies of medical records to their patients, or allowing patients access to their records. Another common concern is how long to retain records for.

  • Medical research and section 60 of the Health and Social Care Act - 9 July 2002

    New regulations in the Health and Social Care Act will affect the way confidential patient information is disclosed for purposes such as research and audit. Whilst at present the legislation serves to remove obstacles preventing disclosure, it could in the future be used to require doctors to release confidential details about patients.

  • Medical school ‘fitness to practise’ hearings - 15 July 2009

    Medical students understandably want to make the most of their time at university but a recent news item in the Times* about the BMA’s 2009 Conference claimed that universities are taking a tough line and subjecting medical students to their own ‘fitness to practise’ procedures.

  • Medical students justify relationships with patients - 21 October 2004

    Recent research reveals that four out of 10 medical students believe having a sexual relationship with a patient can be justified despite GMC guidance advising doctors against crossing professional boundaries in their relationships with patients.

  • Medication error claims in general practice - 8 May 2009

    In 2007, 796 million prescription items were dispensed in the community, principally prescribed by GPs. The vast majority of these items were prescribed appropriately but occasionally errors do occur and given the nature of many of the drugs involved, these errors have the potential to result in compensatable harm to the patient.

  • Medico-legal dilemmas: Inquests - 7 May 2004

    Each year the MDU helps hundreds of members with inquests and fatal accident enquiries. Here we look at some of the issues that arise.

  • Medico-legal dilemmas: consent - 7 May 2004

    Can a doctor sign a consent form on behalf of an incapacitated patient and is an advanced directive signed by a minor valid? We look at some consent dilemmas.

  • Medico-legal dilemmas: refusal of treatment - 7 May 2004

    With the increasing emphasis on patient autonomy and the availability of medical information on the internet, doctors may come across instances where patients express doubts about their treatment. We explore situations where the patient has declined treatment that the doctor advises is appropriate.

  • Medico-legal implications of picture messaging - 24 February 2004

    Thousands of people now own picture messaging mobile phones and some doctors may be considering using this new technology to speed up diagnosis and improve access for patients. Members choosing to use the latest technology in this way need to be aware of some medico-legal pitfalls.

  • Meningitis - a diagnostic dilemma - 1 January 2003

    This article provides a review of the difficulties faced by doctors in trying to diagnose meningitis and meningococcal disease and the potentially serious consequences of misdiagnosis

  • Mental Capacity Act comes into force - 25 June 2007

    MDU members involved in decision making for people whose capacity is impaired need to be aware of the Mental Capacity Act 2005 (MCA), which will come into force in England and Wales during 2007.

  • Mental Capacity Act podcast - 22 July 2009

    Dr Sally Old, MDU medico-legal adviser, explains lasting powers of attorney, advance decisions and other important aspects of the Mental Capacity Act.

  • Mental Capacity Act supersedes GMC guidance - 8 October 2007

    The GMC has asked us to alert you to a number of paragraphs from its guidance which have been superseded by the Mental Capacity Act 2005, which came fully into force in October 2007.

  • Merry samaritans - 19 December 2002

    As the year draws to a close, the festive season is once more upon us with the traditional festivities already under way. Dr Matthew Lee advises doctors unlucky enough to encounter a festive medical emergency.

  • MHRA updates guidance on device incident reporting - 19 August 2004

    In January this year, the Medicines and Healthcare products Regulatory Agency (MHRA) issued updated guidance on its system for reporting adverse incidents and disseminating medical device alerts.

  • Minimising radiation errors - 26 March 2008

    A report by the Healthcare Commission revealed a third of all x-ray and radiological incidents involve exposing the wrong patient to radiation.

  • Missed appointments - 1 December 2000

    This article talks about the issue of missed appointments and the problems that can arise from communication gaps between doctors and patients. Also provides a case history and risk management advice

  • Missed appointments - 25 January 2007

    Dentists are advised to think carefully about what action to take over missed appointments.

  • Missed malignancies in general practice - 1 June 2007

    A new analysis of MDU settled claims shows that malignancy is the most frequent condition GPs miss or delay diagnosing. The proportion of claims settled following a delay or failure to diagnose a malignancy is increasing.

  • More prescribing power for nurses - 28 February 2002

    The health secretary has announced that nurses will be prescribing more medicines in the future. This article looks at some of the implications.

  • Myocardial infarction - new NICE guidelines - 13 June 2001

    The National Institute for Clinical Excellence (NICE) has produced guidelines for treating patients who have experienced a myocardial infarction. The guidelines form a valuable tool for doctors faced with difficult clinical decisions.

  • National Clinical Assessment Authority (GP version) - 15 September 2002

    The National Clinical Assessment Authority (NCAA) is a new body which will take referrals from PCTs and Trusts where there are concerns regarding a doctors performance. The NCAA will provide advice and assessments. This article looks at how the referral and assessment process will work.

  • National Clinical Assessment Authority (hospital doctor version) - 15 September 2002

    The National Clinical Assessment Authority (NCAA) is a new body which will take referrals from PCTs and Trusts where there are concerns regarding a doctors performance. The NCAA will provide advice and assessments. This article looks at how the referral and assessment process will work.

  • National reporting and learning system launched - 19 March 2004

    The National Patient Safety Agency launched on February 24 the world’s first national system for collecting reports of health system failures and errors, in England and Wales, that could compromise patient safety.

  • National Smile Week 13 - 19 May 2002 - 8 May 2002

    Last year the DDU received a number of calls during National Smile Week. Rupert Hoppenbrouwers, Head of the DDU, provides you with the answers to some of the most commonly asked questions.

  • Negligent failure to warn - a departure from principle - 20 May 2005

    A majority House of Lords judgment in an appeal against a finding of clinical negligence, in the case of a doctor whose patient suffered cauda equina damage after consenting to lumbar spinal surgery without being fully informed of the risks, has left future such cases open to interpretation.

  • New child protection course - 25 January 2006

    Child abuse is an emotive and sensitive issue for doctors to deal with. The consequences of getting it wrong can be severe for the child, the parents and the doctor, while the extensive media coverage pertaining to clinicians has at times been critical of them.

  • New child protection guidance - 27 April 2006

    Updated guidance from the Department of Education and Skills advises that where a doctor is aware a patient under 16 is having sex, the case should continue to be considered on its own merits.

  • New complaints procedure - 11 July 2007

    A simplified two-stage complaints procedure for NHS patients is planned by the Department of Health and is now the subject of a consultation.

  • New confidentiality guidance - 27 April 2005

    The Department of Health has published an updated code of practice setting out guidance on the confidentiality of patient information held by GPs and other contractors who provide primary care services. The new code and directions replace those issued in September 2004.

  • New consent forms from the Department of Health - 3 December 2001

    The Department of Health has recently revised all consent forms and has produced detailed guidance about consent for patients. This article explains the forms and the circumstances in which they should be used.

  • New counter fraud code of practice - 8 May 2008

    Doctors can be asked to disclose documents under a new code of practice for NHS Counter Fraud and Security Management Service (CFSMS).

  • New cremation rules come into force - 22 January 2009

    Doctors should be aware of new cremation regulations, which came into force on 1 January 2009, and introduce new forms for certification of cremation although the old forms can still be used for a one-month transitional period.

  • New decontamination code of practice published - 1 June 2007

    A new code of practice for the control and prevention of healthcare associated infections in England such as Creutzfeldt-Jackob Disease, will mean GPs need to review and update their decontamination procedures.

  • New GMC booklet on research - 18 February 2002

    Following the GMC's new booklet aimed at doctors involved in research, this article looks at some of the consent issues.

  • New GMC guidance on beliefs - 17 March 2008

    The GMC has launched new ethical guidance on Personal Beliefs and Medical Practice advising doctors how they can ensure their personal beliefs do not adversely affect their relationships with or treatment of patients.

  • New GMC guidance on management - 18 April 2006

    NEW GMC guidance sets out standards expected of doctors who act as managers and of those who are managed.

  • New GMC requirements on identifying yourself - 26 April 2006

    New guidance from the General Medical Council (GMC) requires doctors to identify themselves clearly by using their registered name when signing statutory documents, such as prescriptions.

  • New guidance on antibiotic prophylaxis - 1 April 2008

    The MDU is advising members to familiarise themselves with new NICE guidance which recommends that antibiotic prophylaxis is not necessary for patients with structural cardiac defects undergoing certain interventional procedures.

  • New guidance on antibiotic prophylaxis - 1 April 2008

    The MDU is advising GP members to familiarise themselves with new NICE guidance that recommends antibiotic prophylaxis is not necessary for patients with structural cardiac defects undergoing certain interventional procedures.

  • New guidance on antibiotic prophylaxis - 2 April 2008

    The DDU is advising members to familiarise themselves with new NICE guidance that recommends antibiotic prophylaxis is not necessary for patients with structural cardiac defects undergoing dental interventional procedures.

  • New guidance on anticoagulant therapy in dental surgery - 25 April 2007

    The National Patient Safety Agency (NPSA) has issued a patient safety alert to all NHS and independent sector organisations in England and Wales to manage the risks associated with anticoagulant medication.

  • New guidance on child protection - 30 June 2003

    The Department of Health has issued new guidance for doctors and other healthcare professionals on communication and confidentiality where there are concerns that a child is at risk of physical or sexual abuse.

  • New guidance on controlled drugs - 2 November 2006

    The Department of Health (DoH) has issued two new sets of guidance on record keeping and destruction of Schedule 2 controlled drugs (CDs) in England.

  • New guidance on domestic abuse - 30 January 2006

    The Department of Health has issued new guidance to help doctors when confronted by a patient whom they suspect may be the victim of domestic abuse.

  • New guidance on drug labelling - 27 March 2003

    The Medical Control Agency has issued new guidelines on labelling and packaging, which it hopes will assist doctors to avoid confusion and eliminate the few errors that occur with worrying regularity.

  • New guidance on non-consensual blood testing after a needlestick injury - 23 October 2006

    The GMC's advice on testing the blood or bodily fluids from a patient who lacks capacity after a doctor has sustained a needlestick injury, has been superseded by recent legislative changes - namely the Human Tissue Act 2004, which came into force in England, Wales and Northern Ireland on 1 September 2006.

  • New guidance on non-surgical cosmetic treatments - 4 November 2008

    The GDC has withdrawn its July guidance on non-surgical cosmetic treatments following feedback from the DDU and other organisations. It has now published interim guidance to dentists who wish to carry out these procedures.

  • New guidance on patient removals - 30 September 2004

    The Royal College of General Practitioners has updated its guidance for GPs on removing patients from their lists. It advises doctors that, while there are some rare circumstances which justify removal, there are other circumstances where the doctor/patient relationship may potentially be restored.

  • New guidance to help prevent identification errors - 3 August 2007

    Over the 12-month period February 2006 to January 2007, the NPSA says it "received 24,382 reports of patients being mismatched to their care" where for example, staff confused two patients with similar names.

  • New guidelines on contraception - 16 August 2004

    New Department of Health guidance for doctors giving contraception advice to under-16s caused a flurry of headlines but members are reassured that nothing has changed in terms of their legal responsibilities.

  • New guidelines on violence - 29 November 2002

    The ongoing NHS Zero Tolerance campaign issued updated guidelines recently to advise managers about best practice in dealing with violence in the NHS.

  • New look coroner's service - what it means for you - 9 June 2003

    A major shake-up of death certification services in England, Wales and Northern Ireland calls for the creation of a national coroners service to address the flaws and fragmentation in the existing services.

  • New MDU initiative: Revalidation - 1 March 2001

    As the first part of a new programme designed to assist members with revalidation, the MDU has introduced a practical guide to help members set up and run significant event audit meetings.

  • New Medical Council guidance on consent - 28 April 2009

    The Irish Medical Council has approved new guidance for doctors: “Good Medical Practice in Seeking Informed Consent to Treatment”. The MDU is advising its members practising in Ireland to familiarise themselves with the new guidance and to review how they communicate with patients.

  • New NHS framework governing disciplinary procedures - 1 July 2004

    The first two sections of the DoH's framework were introduced by the Restriction of Practice and Exclusion from Work Directions 2003, which came into force on 5 January 2004. It is hoped that the changes they introduce will reduce the number of inappropriate and unnecessary suspensions of hospital doctors.

  • New out-of-hours quality standards - 31 January 2003

    The MDU is reminding GPs that Primary Care Trusts are responsible for the accreditation of the organisation providing a practice's out of hours cover, according to guidelines issued by the Department of Health.

  • New resuscitation guidelines - 15 February 2006

    The Resuscitation Council has updated its guidelines for both basic and advanced life support.

  • New review stage to NHS complaints procedure - 13 December 2004

    As of July 2004, all patients or carers who are not satisfied with the way a complaint about dental services has been handled at practice level, are entitled to ask the Healthcare Commission to consider the complaint.

  • New subjects for CPD - 5 October 2006

    Members who are approaching their next CPD cycle need to be aware that the General Dental Council is introducing dento-legal subjects to compulsory continuing professional development (CPD).

  • NHS and social care complaints procedure - an introduction - 1 April 2009

    A new NHS and social care complaints procedure was introduced in England on 1 April 2009. The local resolution stage of the new procedure is governed by regulations: The Local Authority Social Services and National Health Service Complaints (England) Regulations 2009.

  • NHS and social care complaints procedure – an introduction - 13 May 2009

    A new NHS and social care complaints procedure was introduced in England on 1 April 2009. The local resolution stage of the new procedure is governed by regulations: The Local Authority Social Services and National Health Service Complaints (England) Regulations 2009.

  • NHS and social care complaints procedure - local resolution - 1 April 2009

    The Department of Health places great emphasis on resolving complaints as quickly as possible. This may be through an immediate informal response by a doctor or through a quick but thorough investigation and a written response.

  • NHS and social care complaints procedure – local resolution - 13 May 2009

    A new NHS and social care complaints procedure was introduced in England on 1 April 2009. The local resolution stage of the new procedure is governed by regulations: The Local Authority Social Services and National Health Service Complaints (England) Regulations 2009.

  • NHS complaints against doctors drop - 5 December 2007

    New figures showing an overall decrease in NHS complaints reflect the MDU's experiences of complaints notified to it by GP members.

  • NHS computerisation: lessons from primary care - 1 May 2005

    As the Department of Health begins to introduce to the NHS its new National Project for IT, including a system for electronic patient records and joined up healthcare, there could a be a lot to be learned from experience in general practice, where many practices made the transition to computer-based records some time ago.

  • NHS constitution sets out expectations of NHS staff - 2 July 2009

    Clause 2 in the Health Bill, currently progressing through Parliament, is intended to make the NHS Constitution for England legally binding for named NHS organisations such as primary care and hospital trusts.

  • NHS GP summary care records - 10 January 2007

    The MDU has received a number of queries from GP members about the Department of Health's plans to establish NHS summary care records which will be introduced as part of the NHS's wider national programme for IT.

  • NHS Scotland announces Quality Strategy - 30 March 2010

    All NHS boards will be expected to identify steps they can take to improve the quality of care they give to patients under the recently announced NHS Scotland quality strategy.

  • Not just a cosmetic exercise - 31 May 2008

    Dentistry today is placing ever greater emphasis on improving the aesthetic appearance of the teeth and face. Rupert Hoppenbrouwers, head of the DDU, looks at the risk management issues involved in cosmetic work.

  • Not just a cosmetic exercise - 31 May 2008

    Dentistry today is placing ever greater emphasis on improving the aesthetic appearance of the teeth and face. Rupert Hoppenbrouwers, head of the DDU, looks at the risk management issues involved in cosmetic work.

  • Not just a cosmetic exercise - 31 May 2008

    Dentistry today is placing ever greater emphasis on improving the aesthetic appearance of the teeth and face.

  • Not just a cosmetic exercise - 31 May 2008

    Dentistry today is placing ever greater emphasis on improving the aesthetic appearance of the teeth and face.

  • Not just a cosmetic exercise - 31 May 2008

    Dentistry today is placing ever greater emphasis on improving the aesthetic appearance of the teeth and face.

  • Not just a cosmetic exercise - 31 May 2008

    Dentistry today is placing ever greater emphasis on improving the aesthetic appearance of the teeth and face.

  • Not just a cosmetic exercise - 31 May 2008

    Dentistry today is placing ever greater emphasis on improving the aesthetic appearance of the teeth and face

  • Not just a cosmetic exercise - 31 May 2008

    Dentistry today is placing ever greater emphasis on improving the aesthetic appearance of the teeth and face

  • Not just a cosmetic exercise - 31 May 2008

    Dentistry today is placing ever greater emphasis on improving the aesthetic appearance of the teeth and face

  • Not just a cosmetic exercise - 31 May 2008

    Dentistry today is placing ever greater emphasis on improving the aesthetic appearance of the teeth and face

  • Not just a cosmetic exercise - 31 May 2008

    Dentistry today is placing ever greater emphasis on improving the aesthetic appearance of the teeth and face

  • Not just a cosmetic exercise - 31 May 2008

    Dentistry today is placing ever greater emphasis on improving the aesthetic appearance of the teeth and face

  • Not just a cosmetic exercise - 31 May 2008

    Dentistry today is placing ever greater emphasis on improving the aesthetic appearance of the teeth and face.

  • Not just a cosmetic exercise - 31 May 2008

    Dentistry today is placing ever greater emphasis on improving the aesthetic appearance of the teeth and face.

  • Not just a cosmetic exercise - 31 May 2008

    Dentistry today is placing ever greater emphasis on improving the aesthetic appearance of the teeth and face.

  • Not just a cosmetic exercise - 31 May 2008

    Dentistry today is placing ever greater emphasis on improving the aesthetic appearance of the teeth and face.

  • NPSA endorses WHO Surgical Safety checklist - 11 February 2009

    The NPSA has published a Patient Safety Alert which requires NHS organisations to implement an adapted version of the Surgical Safety Checklist for every patient undergoing a surgical procedure and to record this in the records.

  • NPSA guidelines on wrong site surgery - 1 May 2005

    In March 2005, the National Patient Safety Agency (NPSA) published national guidelines aimed at reducing the instances of "wrong site" surgery.

  • Nursing dilemmas - 31 May 2008

    From this summer dental nurses must register with the General Dental Council (GDC). DDU dento-legal adviser Leo Briggs considers two fictional dilemmas illustrating responsibilities facing both nurses and dentists in the changing regulatory landscape.

  • Off the hook? - 1 August 2006

    The telephone is a crucial point of contact between patients and the practice. A phone that is constantly engaged, never answered, or answered then put on hold is likely to annoy patients before they even get to see their dentist.

  • Offering chaperones - 22 October 2004

    The recent publication of the Ayling report has focussed attention on the use of chaperones. Although the recommendations in the report have not yet been adopted, it's useful to recap on the current guidance.

  • On the record: cautionary tales on hospital record keeping - 27 August 2004

    Clinical records are an essential part of hospital care. And yet, in a busy environment when several practitioners may be involved in a patient's treatment, entries can be overlooked or mislaid and it is not obvious who is responsible for keeping - and acting on - those records.

  • Oral cancer - 20 November 2006

    Following Mouth Cancer Awareness Week, the DDU offers advice to help members avoid delays in the diagnosis and treatment of oral cancer.

  • Oral methotrexate - 18 August 2004

    The MDU has welcomed the NPSA's alert to GP and hospital doctors about the dangers associated with prescribing, dispensing and administering low dose oral methotrexate for psoriasis and rheumatoid arthritis.

  • Overseas treatment - 29 April 2008

    Advice for GP members on the medico-legal issues raised by patients who travel overseas for treatment.

  • Ownership of records - 17 March 2004

    Although patients have a right of access to medical records they are not the owner of them.

  • Paediatric medication incidents - 21 October 2004

    A recent analysis of MDU cases alleging medication errors reveals that 20 per cent involved children under 15. Here we look at the reasons for the allegations, the drugs involved, the costs and provide some risk management suggestions.

  • Pandemic flu and indemnity - 19 June 2009

    We have been in discussion with the Department of Health for some time in order to ensure that the arrangements for indemnity provision in the event of a pandemic are very clear.

  • Partnership interviews: a question of attitude - 31 January 2008

    In the second of a series of articles on interview preparation, Olivier Picard, managing director of ISC Medical, a company specialising in interview skills for doctors, gives some useful advice for doctors considering applying for a partnership position in general practice.

  • Patient information leaflets - 1 December 2000

    This article talks about patient information leaflets, the purpose of them and what to include

  • PCTs required to review out of hours arrangements - 3 January 2007

    The Department of Health has published new directions requiring primary care trusts (PCTs) to review their arrangements for primary medical services (PMS) out of hours to ensure arrangements are fit for purpose and that patients receive adequate continuity of care.

  • Planning your medical elective - 12 March 2003

    Where do you start planning your elective? Gordon Hamilton, developer of The Electives Network website, provides some valuable advice.

  • Police cautions - 20 July 2007

    Advice to dental professionals on declaring police cautions.

  • Police cautions - 9 April 2010

    A student accepted a police caution for being drunk and disorderly. He contacted the MDU for advice and asked whether this would affect his application for provisional registration with the GMC.

  • Police information requests - 28 June 2006

    The MDU is advising members to be aware of their ethical and professional responsibilities when approached for information about patients from the police or other agencies.

  • Potential risk of vCJD risk with reusable instruments - 23 April 2007

    Dentists in the UK have been warned against the reuse of endodontic reamers and files because of the potential risk of contamination from variant Creutzfeldt-Jakob Disease (vCJD) after cleaning.

  • Practice managers Q & A - 31 October 2008

    Practice managers can occasionally be faced with some difficult situations. Dr James Armstrong, MDU medico-legal adviser, poses some questions and answers that illustrate how a practice manager can approach these encounters.

  • Prehospital care and A & E medicine - 11 March 2003

    Andrew Swatton dispels the myth that medical students miss out by staying in the UK for their elective. Read about his experiences with the Royal London Hospital's Helicopter Emergency Medical Service (HEMS) team and in A&E.

  • Preparing witness statements - 9 April 2010

    A medical student has been asked by the police to submit a witness statement in relation to an allegation of sexual assault by a patient against a hospital consultant. The student had been present at the consultation during which the alleged assault took place, but was unsure what information to include in her written statement.

  • Prescribing - your questions answered - 26 November 2003

    Prescribing drugs is a daily part of life for a doctor. But it is also one of the areas in which doctors may sometimes come unstuck. We answer some of the typical medico-legal questions.

  • Prescribing and administering botulinum toxin - 23 October 2008

    The GMC has updated its prescribing guidance to make it clear that Patient Group Directions are not suitable for the supply and administration of botulinum toxin which can only now be prescribed on a patient specific basis.

  • Prescribing anti-depressants to an adolescent - 7 May 2004

    In this fictional scenario you are treating a 15 year old who has symptons of serious clinical depression. You feel that an SSRI could be a good treatment option but are aware of guidance prohibiting the use of paroxetine for children.

  • Presentation skills for student doctors - 1 May 2000

    This article provides an outline of the do's and don'ts of designing and giving an effective presentation. A conceptual framework to develop your presentation.

  • Prevention is better than litigation - minimising the risks - 25 September 2002

    As a recently-qualified dentist the chance of requiring the DDU’s assistance has more than doubled in the last 10 years. Unfortunately, risk plays a part in everyday life but with simple preventive measures most potential risks can be reduced.

  • Private Dentistry (Wales) Regulations 2008 - 6 January 2009

    From January 2009, dental professionals who practise privately in Wales will need to register with a new regulatory body and adhere to minimum standards set out by the Welsh Assembly Government.

  • Product Liability - 1 January 1998

    This article provides an outline of the Consumer Protection Act and product liability implications for members

  • Professional opinions and the Data Protection Act - 24 April 2006

    The Information Commissioner's Office has published a good practice note on the application of the Data Protection Act to professional opinions. It includes examples relating to medical records, such as what to do about inaccuracies highlighted by patients.

  • Promoting success - 31 May 2008

    How to avoid the dento-legal pitfalls of marketing your practice.

  • Protecting confidentiality - 12 April 2010

    While on a consultant-led ward round, a student examined a patient who had broken her hip. Later that day, the patient’s friend visited the hospital and asked the medical student about her friend’s condition.

  • Publishing in a professional capacity - 8 June 2009

    We have received several requests from members for advice about indemnity for providing medical advice through media such as newspaper columns, radio programmes or, increasingly, on the internet. To clarify the position, we offer members who publish or broadcast in a professional capacity the following guidance:

  • Pupils in the practice - 31 October 2008

    Dr John Holden, MDU medico-legal adviser, provides recommendations on best practice if approached by a school pupil about work experience in the surgery.

  • Quality Mark to be launched for health information - 27 May 2009

    The Department of Health (DH) has devised a new scheme to allow health and social care organisations in England to be certified as meeting an Information Standard and to publish a quality mark on the information they produce.

  • Quality Mark to be launched for health information - 27 May 2009

    The Department of Health (DH) has devised a new scheme to allow health and social care organisations in England to be certified as meeting an Information Standard and to publish a quality mark on the information they produce.

  • Quality of radiographs - 21 February 2003

    A number of members have contacted the DDU regarding a letter received from the Dental Practice Board asking to see a record card and radiographs.

  • Raising concerns about possible terrorist acts - 25 October 2001

    The tragic events of 11 September 2001 raise the question of when should a member report concerns about a possible act of terrorism. This issue is addressed by the Terrorism Act 2000.

  • Recording consultations - 3 March 2010

    The DDU has been contacted by members who are considering making a digital recording of dental consultations to provide evidence that their management and treatment of a patient was of a reasonable standard.

  • Recording telephone consultations - new GMC guidance - 15 September 2002

    New guidance from the General Medical Council stresses that GPs who record telephone consultations must not single out conversations with individual callers and must ensure that all callers know they are being taped.

  • Referral for gastric surgery - 10 May 2004

    You see a 45 year old patient who is overweight and previous attempts to reduce his weight have not worked. He is keen to try gastric surgery but you are aware of the risks involved. Do you refer him?

  • Referring a terminal cancer patient to a homeopath - 7 May 2004

    You are an oncologist. A 63-year-old man with disseminated pancreatic carcinoma is your first patient. He knows his case is terminal and asks to be referred to a homeopath. How do you respond?

  • Referring patients for exercise - 24 February 2005

    The announcement this week, by the Department of Health that it would be offering training in sports and exercise to doctors may help to avoid some of the medico-legal dilemmas doctors face when referring patients for exercise.

  • Refusal of dental treatment - 11 August 2003

    Dentists often call the DDU dento-legal advice line wanting to know what to do if a patient refuses treatment. Iain Cuthbertson, dento-legal adviser at the DDU, gives dento-legal advice on an all-too-common scenario experienced frequently in dental practices throughout the country.

  • Refusal of treatment - 1 August 2006

    Dentists often call the DDU's dento-legal advice line wanting to know what to do if a patient refuses treatment.

  • Refusal of treatment - attempted suicide - 10 May 2004

    A 15 year old has attempted suicide and is refusing a gastric washout, blood test or IV drip. Her mother cannot be found and you think her life is at risk without treatment. What do you do?

  • Registration - 1 December 2000

    This article talks of registration, of what information needs to be taken and the importance of updating information. It also includes a case history and provides risk management advice

  • Regulation changes have significant impact on all GDPs - 15 March 2002

    The NHS General Dental Services Amendment (No 6) Regulations 2001 affect all NHS GDPs in England. The 2001 Regulations came into force on 14 December 2001 and may have a bearing on whether or not a dentist is able to practise as an NHS GDP.

  • Regulation changes have significant impact on all GPs - 20 February 2002

    The NHS General Medical Services Amendment (No 4) Regulations 2001 affect all NHS GPs in England. The 2001 Regulations came into force on 14 December 2001 and may have a bearing on whether or not a doctor is able to practise as an NHS GP.

  • Regulation of the dental team - the changes explained - 1 August 2006

    By July 2008, all members of the dental care team must be registered with the GDC in order to be able to practise. The new registration rules are designed to raise standards and devolve responsibilities in the care of dental patients but there are other dento-legal implications.

  • Regulation reform - 1 June 2007

    In February this year the Government responded to the Chief Medical Officer's proposals for the future of healthcare regulations in a White paper - Trust, Assurance and Safety - The Regulation of Health Professionals in the 21st century.

  • Remote control in Nepal - 10 June 2009

    Lauren Newcomb coped with basic and freezing conditions when she spent her elective two days' walk away from the nearest hospital, high in the Himalayas.

  • Report calls for end to pharma industry gifts - 13 February 2009

    A recent Royal College of Physicians review recommends an end to pharmaceutical companies offering doctors free gifts, hotel stays, meals and other inducements of any value.

  • Report highlights importance of reporting incidents in primary care - 25 October 2007

    An influential group of MPs has concluded that "not all GPs understand the concept of clinical governance and how it relates to their day-to-day work and that PCTs "need to communicate more effectively … the importance of clinical governance systems" and how they contribute to maintaining quality and safety of healthcare.

  • Report writing – timing is everything - 4 June 2010

    A local newspaper recently reported that a GP was publicly criticised by a coroner at an inquest for failing to provide a report into the death of a patient, despite apparently being contacted five times over the previous seven months*.

  • Reporting criminal convictions and cautions - 9 July 2009

    Medical students need to pay attention to their behaviour before they qualify as it may affect their eventual ability to register with the GMC and their future career.

  • Resolving complaints - 6 April 2004

    Complaints can be distressing and upsetting experiences, but they also provide an opportunity for doctors and students to resolve a patient's concerns about their treatment at an early stage and help prevent it from turning into a negligence claim or GMC complaint.

  • Resolving confusion - 9 April 2010

    A medical student was taking a patient history. While doing so, the patient addressed the student as “Dr” and it became apparent that he assumed the student was fully qualified. The student did not correct the patient. The student later contacted the MDU to ask for advice on how he should have handled the misunderstanding.

  • Resuscitation update - 1 August 2006

    New guidance from the Resuscitation Council has been made simpler and easier to understand. New guidance has also been issued by the GDC.

  • Retaining patient records - 28 May 2003

    Members - or more often their Practice Managers - frequently contact us to ask how long they should retain dental records.

  • Retirement Planning - 2 August 2010

    Doctors planning for their retirement have much to think about - from the safe handover and ongoing clinical care of their patients, to financial, employment and contractual considerations. This article aims to help MDU members by setting out their ethical and medico-legal responsibilities.

  • Returned mail raises confidentiality issues - 1 October 2006

    The Royal Mail will now only return undeliverable mail if it has a return address on the envelope. This could create a breach of confidentiality, as other people in a patient's household will be able to see that a letter is from the doctor.

  • Review of complaints to the GMC - 1991/2001 - 15 March 2003

    Investigations by the GMC into complaints against doctors are on the increase. Dr Patrick Hoyte, senior research fellow at the MDU, investigates the trends in and outcomes of clinical and non-clinical complaints with which the MDU assisted members in a recent 30-month period (pdf document).

  • Review of complaints to the GMC against GPs - 1991/2001 - 13 January 2003

    GMC proceedings against GPs are decreasing in relative terms despite a background of complaints against the whole medical profession rising by 1450 per cent in the last 11 years, according to a new analysis by the MDU.

  • Review of GP orthopaedic claims - 18 March 2002

    Orthopaedics might not seem like an area of significant risk in primary care. Yet analysis of MDU claims over a ten year period reveals this was the second most frequent reason for a claim against a GP and only surpassed by misdiagnosis of malignancy.

  • Review of GP paediatric claims - 1 May 2002

    Claims involving children account for some 12 percent of all claims against GPs. according to analysis of MDU claims experience over a 10 year period.

  • Review of settled private urology claims - 8 April 2003

    Prostate surgery generates the highest proportion of all the settled claims in private-sector urology, according to a new analysis of 12 years of claims by Medical Defence Union senior research fellow Dr Patrick Hoyte.

  • Revision notes: Can you keep a secret? - 1 October 1998

    This article provides an outline of the practical impact of medical ethics. What practitioners need to consider when working within an ethical framework of practice. Examples of the challenges facing doctors from the MDU casebook.

  • Right patient - right care - 29 December 2004

    A new study has highlighted the different types of identification errors which occur in the NHS and highlights ways in which they might be prevented through basic, manual checks and the use of new technology.

  • Risk factors for oral cancer - 1 October 1998

    This elective report is about a dental student who spent his elective in Leicester, studying the habitual use of alcohol, tobacco and paan among the local Asian population, with a view to setting up oral cancer prevention programmes.

  • Risk management in cancer screening - 15 July 2003

    Every day, on average, four people die in the UK from oral cancer. Mark Phillips looks at the legal implications of screening for oral cancer and provides a useful guide on the steps that should be taken.

  • Risk management in Endodontics - part one - 10 December 2004

    The first part of this two-part series looks at active steps that can be taken to prevent many of the common dento-legal problems that arise from endodontics.

  • Risk management in Endodontics - part two - 1 May 2005

    The second part of this two-part series looks at active steps that can be taken to prevent many of the common dento-legal problems that arise from endodontics.

  • Risk Management in the PRHO year - 1 May 2000

    This articles looks at some of the issues a newly qualified doctor may face and offers some risk management advice

  • Risk of chemotherapy medication error - 16 July 2007

    The MDU is aware of a small number of cases in which there have been errors in prescribing oral chemotherapy using "Z-Dex" protocols.

  • Royal mail industrial action - 20 October 2009

    The industrial action planned by Royal Mail postal workers may have an impact on members contacting the DDU.

  • Royal Medical Benevolent Fund - 1 September 2003

    When it comes to medical negligence claims, MDU members can relax, safe in the knowledge that they can approach the MDU. But what happens if they fall on hard times? Dr Ian Kelsey Fry, past President of the MDU and Trustee of the Royal Medical Benevolent Fund, describes the work of this charitable trust.

  • Safety in doses report - 30 October 2009

    The National Patient Safety Agency (NPSA) has published a detailed review of medication incidents reported in 2007.

  • Same dentist rule - 7 April 2001

    As more practices are working partly outside of the NHS regulations, this brings with it a new set of potential problems. One such problem relates to the dentist who is in contract with the HA and has patients accepted under the continuing care schem

  • Saying sorry - 16 June 2004

    Clinicians in the United States have reported that saying sorry to patients and providing a prompt explanation has led to substantial savings in terms of of the time and money involved in settling claims, reflecting the advice that the DDU has been provoding for some time.

  • Saying sorry - 11 June 2004

    Doctors in the United States have reported that saying sorry to patients and providing a prompt explanation has led to substantial savings in terms of time and money involved in settling claims, reflecting the advice that the MDU has been providing for over 40 years.

  • Seatbelt exemption certificates - 28 April 2003

    A GP recently contacted the MDU advice line after a patient asked for a medical certificate exempting him from wearing a seatbelt.

  • Section 60 of the Health and Social Care Act - 9 July 2002

    New regulations in the Health and Social Care Act will affect the way confidential patient information is disclosed for purposes such as research and audit. Whilst at present the legislation serves to remove obstacles preventing disclosure, it could in the future be used to require dentists to release confidential details about patients.

  • Securing controlled drugs - 20 February 2009

    The MDU is regularly contacted by members seeking advice about the secure storage of controlled drugs (CDs) both at the practice and when carrying out home visits.

  • Security of electronic records - 25 June 2009

    The MDU reminds doctors of the importance of protecting confidential patient information held electronically

  • Self-prescribing - 23 March 2007

    A recent survey revealed that almost of half of GPs have prescribed medication for themselves in the past year, despite the risk of a GMC fitness to practise investigation.

  • Setting up a system to learn from events - 11 May 2006

    Complaints are an inevitable part of general practice, but they may also offer an excellent opportunity to learn from mistakes and make improvements.

  • Setting up protocols for your practice - 1 May 2008

    As nurses’ roles have extended to include more complex medical services and healthcare assistants have become more involved in the delivery of care in general practice, appropriate protocols may help a practice to define roles and responsibilities within the healthcare team.

  • Seven steps to patient safety for primary care - 25 November 2005

    In a busy, pressurised GP practice, mistakes do happen although it's rare for patients to suffer harm as a result. However, it is sometimes possible to identify potential risks and take action to prevent such problems occurring in the first place, so improving the quality of care provided.

  • Signing forms and declarations - 12 May 2010

    Dental professionals are in a position of authority and trust in the community which means they may occasionally be asked to countersign a form, such as a passport application, or provide a reference for a friend or colleague.

  • Skin deep – dermatology claims revealed - 1 November 2009

    While the risk of a dermatologist being sued is not high, the MDU is notified of around 10 claims or potential claims a year by dermatology members practising in the independent sector.

  • Sleep deprivation - 15 February 2002

    Following the sentencing of the sleep-deprived man involved in the Selby train crash, the MDU offers advice to members who may be deprived of sleep due to overwork.

  • So you want to work in A & E? - 24 November 2003

    Nakul Patel, a fifth year medical student at Barts and The London School of Medicine and Dentistry, considers some of the pros and cons of specialising in Accident and Emergency Medicine.

  • Standards for dental professionals - 30 September 2005

    In June 2005, the General Dental Council published its new ethical guidance, Standards for Dental Professionals, which replaces Maintaining Standards. The new guidance applies to all members of the dental team, including the new groups of Dental Care Professionals (DCPs) such as dental nurses who will start to register from 2006.

  • Staying safe in Lahore - 5 October 2009

    Yasmin Akram, from St Georges medical school, travelled for her elective to Pakistan, where she experienced a very unfamiliar political and medical culture.

  • Sterilisation equipment - 8 April 2002

    The MDU is advising GP members to check cleaning and sterilisation procedures and equipment in light of a new safety notice issued by the Medical Devices Agency.

  • Stress-busters - 1 September 2000

    This article talks of how to recognise and react constructively to stress throughout your career as a student

  • Stress-busters - 1 November 2000

    This article talks of how to recognise and react constructively to stress as a dental student

  • Student–patient relationships - 12 April 2010

    A female medical student had been speaking to a patient on the ward. As the student prepared to leave, the patient offered to give her his phone number. The patient added that he would very much like to see the student again and perhaps take her for dinner.

  • Students and consent - 7 March 2006

    Advice on obtaining a patient's consent for medical students to observe or carry out an examination.

  • Students in the surgery - 16 September 2005

    With places at medical school hotly contested, many school pupils will be contacting GPs to ask for work experience placements next summer.

  • Suspending NHS clinical staff - 14 November 2003

    The MDU welcomes the National Audit Office report published last week (6 November 2003), which describes the way the NHS manages the suspension of doctors as unfair, expensive and time consuming.

  • Swine flu – the FAQs - 13 August 2009

    As cases of swine flu in the UK continue to rise, calls to the DDU dental helpline from concerned dental health professionals have increased.

  • Tackling violent or abusive patients - 1 December 2007

    Recent surveys have revealed that many doctors have encountered violent or abusive patients. Here we summarise the practical steps doctors can take when dealing with the aftermath of such an incident.

  • Take action if a colleague causes concern - 26 January 2007

    A BBC survey for Real Story, Your Life in their Boozy Hands, 13 June 2005 found that over the previous 10 years, 750 hospital staff had been disciplined over alcohol and drug related problems.

  • Take care when amending records - 21 December 2006

    A medical record is a basic, but essential clinical tool. It provides a clear and accurate picture of a patient’s care and treatment and helps communication between health care professionals.

  • Team spirit - 1 August 2006

    GDC guidance The Principles of Dental Team Working addresses the key issues of working together to provide the best possible patient care across an extended dental team.

  • The children of Novkini - 1 May 2000

    A medical student spent part of his summer in Belarus at an orphanage for children with special needs, where he discovered a very different approach.

  • The dangers of abbreviations - 1 June 2008

    The MDU has long warned members that the use of abbreviations in clinical notes can cause communication problems with medical colleagues and other healthcare professionals. Dr Sally Old, MDU medico-legal adviser, outlines some areas where difficulties can arise.

  • The Dentists Act 1984 (Amendment) Order 2005 - Article 35 - 20 May 2008

    Members have contacted us because they were concerned they may be acting illegally under the amended Dentists Act 1984 by providing dental treatment in some circumstances. The MDU has obtained clarification from the GDC and is able to reassure members about what treatment constitutes the practice of dentistry.

  • The doctor as a professional witness - 30 November 2009

    At some stage in their career, most doctors will be asked to attend court and for many it’s a daunting prospect. In this podcast, MDU medico-legal adviser Dr James Armstrong provides an overview of the legal system and gives advice on how to prepare for an appearance in court and give evidence.

  • The doctor as a professional witness - 6 December 2002

    Few doctors relish the prospect of giving evidence, but an understanding of what is involved - and of what to do and what not to do - can help to make the experience somewhat less daunting.

  • The employment of locums in general practice - 9 January 2009

    Locum doctors are a fundamental part of the healthcare service, providing cover for annual, study, sick and maternity leave and filling temporary vacancies. The system generally works well but occasionally problems can occur because there has not been a proper handover or induction or because concerns arise about the locum doctor.

  • The expert witness: a vital resource - 20 April 2006

    When a practitioner's competence, professionalism or fitness to practice are called into question - through claim or complaint - there may be a need for an independent expert witness, experienced in the specialty of the doctor concerned. Victoria Wilson, an MDU solicitor, outlines an expert's role, duties - and required background.

  • The GMC and disclosure of records - 12 July 2002

    GMC guidance regarding disclosure of records when it is not possible or practicable to get the patient's consent first.

  • The Healthcare Commission - 16 January 2007

    The MDU has received calls from a number of members asking about the Healthcare Commission and its registration requirements.

  • The hospital on the hill - 1 September 2000

    This article talks of two students' undertaking their elective in Fiji and their experiences

  • The importance of being truthful - 1 December 2007

    A dentist purchased a thriving private practice in a small market town from a retiring dentist. Within the first couple of months of taking over the practice, the member noticed that a number of patients had undiagnosed periodental disease and these patients had been regularly attending the practice.

  • The importance of reviewing a complaint - 2 June 2008

    The MDU reminds doctors that in the complaints process consideration should be given to include a significant event analysis to help resolve any underlying problems and reduce the possibility of the problems recurring.

  • The Inquiries Act - 1 May 2005

    The Inquiries Act which has recently received Royal Assent standardises procedure for holding public inquiries, including into NHS cases.

  • The legal position on tooth bleaching - 30 January 2007

    Public interest in private cosmetic dentistry is growing. Tooth bleaching is particularly popular but for UK dental professionals providing this treatment the legal position is far from clear.

  • The mangroves of Micronesia - 24 June 2003

    Following transits in Los Angeles, Honolulu and Guam and some 30 hours in the air, Emma Shears arrived in Yap, Micronesia on New Year’s Day 2002 for a 10-week elective spent at Yap State Hospital in Colonia, the island’s capital.

  • The MDU's guide to coroners' inquiries - 1 February 2006

    This is a pdf version of the MDU's guide to coroners' inquiries. It covers all stages including the investigation, writing a report for a coroner and the inquest.

  • The MedicAlert Foundation - 26 August 2004

    Active in the UK for over 38 years and endorsed by the Royal college of GPs and the British Association for A&E Medicine, the MedicAlert Foundation is the only non-profit making registered charity providing a warning system to help doctors identify patients with underlying medical condition and allergies.

  • The Mental Capacity Act - questions - 7 November 2007

    MDU members involved in decision making for people whose capacity is impaired need to be aware of the Mental Capacity Act 2005 which is now in force. The Act incorporates existing common law and practice but it also introduces a number of significant changes of which members need to be aware.

  • The Mental Capacity Act 2005 - 20 February 2008

    The Mental Capacity Act is now in force and doctors will need to be aware of its implications in their day-to-day practice. This detailed guide covers the main points of the Act for MDU members, from advance decisions and lasting powers of attorney to the Court of Protection and the use of restraint where patients lack capacity.

  • The National Care Standards Commission - 28 June 2002

    The Care Standards Act 2000 introduced a new regulatory system for the private and independent healthcare sector, with the aim of raising standards and strengthening accountability.

  • The National Patient Safety Agency - an update - 1 September 2003

    The primary purpose of the NPSA is to introduce and oversee a national reporting system for learning from adverse events and near misses in all sectors of the NHS. We provide an update.

  • The new Corporate Manslaughter Act - 30 June 2008

    Members are advised to review their risk management procedures now that NHS bodies as well as other public and private organisations, including GP partnerships, can be prosecuted for corporate manslaughter when gross failure in the management of health and safety results in death.

  • The next step: vocational training - 20 March 2003

    Having graduated from the Royal London Hospital in Summer 2001, Rajesh spent his VT year at an Ipswich Scheme practice in Colchester in Essex. Here he dispels some of the fears and concerns that final year students may feel in the pit of their stomach.

  • The NPSA: raising standards of patient safety - 1 May 2005

    Although human error is perhaps inevitable, when errors occur in relation to clinical care, the consequences for the patient concerned can be devastating. The NPSA are tackling the issues head-on to ensure mistakes are prevented.

  • The paperless practice - 26 November 2003

    What are the problems of going paperless? We look at some of the key issues that need to be addressed.

  • The right to refuse treatment - 16 April 2002

    The recent decision by the High Court to allow a woman paralysed from the neck down to end her life by refusing treatment upholds a competent patient’s right to decline treatment, even if it would lead to his or her own death.

  • The roadside dentist - 22 November 2002

    In August this year, Meera and Nakul Patel, training at St Bart's and the London School of Medicine & Dentistry, spent three weeks of their elective in India observing the practices of a roadside dentist in Gujarat State. This is a summary of their elective project writeup.

  • Too much guidance? - 1 December 2007

    Almost every aspect of modern dentistry is subject to guidelines issued by the profession's governing bodies. Is it necessary to follow all the guidelines for every patient?

  • Tooth bleaching - cover for members - 30 January 2007

    DDU members who receive a complaint or claim relating to tooth bleaching can contact the DDU and seek our assistance in the usual way.

  • Transfusion safety - 26 July 2004

    According to a recent report there was a 32% increase in adverse events relating to blood transfusions in 2003. The findings are echoed by the MDU's own claims experience.

  • Treating your furry and feathered friends - 1 April 2002

    The GMC provides guidelines to registered practitioners advising doctors against self-medicating and prescribing for their families but what is the situation with members of our family of the four-legged variety?

  • Treatment and care towards the end of life - 14 July 2010

    The GMC’s guidance Treatment and care towards the end of life came into force on 1 July 2010, and replaces the GMC’s previous publication Withholding and withdrawing Life prolonging treatments (2002).

  • Treatment of asthma - 20 July 2001

    This article looks at the recommendation for GP surgeries to carry oxygen for the treatment of severe or life threatening asthma.

  • Trust in doctors remains high - 17 March 2008

    Doctors have an ethical and professional duty to be honest and open and maintain public trust in the profession so it should not be surprising that they are still considered to be the UK's most trusted professionals, according to the results of the latest yearly poll commissioned by the Royal College of Physicians.

  • Understanding Continuing Professional Development - 20 December 2002

    For many dentists, understanding exactly what constitutes CPD and how it can be obtained has caused some confusion and anxiety. Ian Sunderland of the GDC outlines some answers to common questions the GDC receives.

  • Unlicensed MMR vaccine - 21 July 2005

    The MDU has received a number of calls from members who are concerned about the medico-legal implications of prescribing unlicensed medicines.

  • Update on GMC disclosure policy - 16 September 2005

    As a result of recent GMC announcements about changes to its policies on disclosure of information, the MDU has seen an increase in requests from members for information about the GMC's disclosure policies.

  • Update on Health and Social Care Bill - 7 February 2008

    On behalf of members, the MDU has raised with government officials and parliamentarians a number of concerns about the changes being proposed to doctor's regulation in the Health and Social Care Bill.

  • Violent patients and GPs' responsibilities under the new contract - 18 November 2003

    From 1 December 2003 Primary Care Organisations (PCOs) will have a responsibility to establish and operate Violent Patient Schemes (VPS) for patients in their area that have been subject to immediate removal from the patient list of either a GMS or PMS practice because of an act or threat of violence.

  • Welsh complaints procedure - 1 April 2009

    A guide to handling complaints in Wales provides comprehensive details on how the NHS expects hospitals and GPs to manage patient complaints.

  • What counts as CPD for dentists in vocational training - 1 July 2004

    For many recently qualified dentists, understanding exactly what constitutes CPD and how it can be obtained has caused some confusion and anxiety. Ian Sunderland, Recertification Administrator at the GDC outlines some answers to common questions the GDC receives.

  • When patients love - or hate - you - 1 April 2003

    The doctor—patient relationship can lay doctors open to unwanted attention from their patients, both amorous advances and varying degrees of more aggressive harassment, which can at times reach dramatic and disturbing proportions. We look at the effect of such, fortunately rare, behaviour and advise on the best ways to avoid or deal with it.

  • Who can make a complaint? - 21 January 2010

    The DDU 24 hour advice line receives regular calls from dental members who have received a complaint concerning one of their patients. Often the complaint is made directly by the patient, but sometimes a relative or another third party will be the first one to contact the surgery.

  • Who comes first - colleagues or patients? - 23 December 2003

    When a dentist sees a new patient they may occasionally see work which raises questions about another colleague’s work. You face two dilemmas - first, what you should tell the patient and, second, what, if anything, you should do about the dentist.

  • Who has access to reports & records? - 21 July 2006

    The MDU regularly receives enquiries from members about whether they should disclose patient's records or medical information to third parties.

  • Why become a dentist? - 23 June 2003

    For a profession that attracts hundreds of new students each year, why is it that wanting to be a dentist is so surprising? Jessica Ross, fourth-year student at Royal London Dental School, talks about her reasons for wanting to be a dentist.

  • Why do I need the MDU? - 24 June 2003

    Why should you be a member of the MDU for your PRHO year and beyond? In this fictitious but thought-provoking tale, Dr Nicholas Norwell, an MDU medico-legal adviser, recounts the sorry saga of John, who finds his early experiences as a doctor very different to how he imagined.

  • Wilderness medicine - 24 June 2003

    Ever wondered what wilderness medicine is all about? A group of medical students from St George's Hospital Medical School, London, describe their experiences at the 2003 Winter Wilderness Medical Conference in Wyoming, USA.

  • Winning ways with sports medicine - 1 December 2007

    Most professional sportsmen and women now have access to state-of-the-art medical care, including a doctor specialising in sports medicine.

  • Withholding and withdrawing life prolonging treatment - 20 August 2002

    New guidance on withholding and withdrawing treatment has just been released by the GMC. The guidance emphasises that the decision to withdraw or withhold treatment from a terminally ill patient is such a serious one that doctors need to consult widely before acting.

  • Work experience students - 28 October 2009

    Having work experience students in the surgery can provide valuable experience for students who are thinking of a future career as a dental professional. However, it's not just a case of saying 'come in and watch me work'.

  • Working through the pandemic - 13 August 2009

    Rupert Hoppenbrouwers, head of the DDU outlines the guidance to dental members in the event that the flu pandemic becomes so severe that the services they provide to patients are affected.

  • Writing a response to a complaint - 1 April 2009

    Most doctors have to produce at least one written response to a patient's complaint during their professional career.

  • www.how-about-a-practice-website.com? - 1 May 2007

    General practices are beginning to embrace the application of internet technology by setting up their own practice websites and the MDU recognises the potential the internet has in assisting clinicians to provide medical care.

  • Your dento-legal questions answered - 21 November 2002

    It doesn’t have to be a crisis to need dento-legal or ethical advice. You can turn to the DDU for help and advice at any time throughout your educational and professional life. Bryan Harvey, deputy head of the DDU provides answers to questions asked by dental students.

  • Your dento-legal questions answered - 10 September 2003

    It doesn’t have to be a crisis to need dento-legal or ethical advice. You can turn to the DDU for help and advice at any time throughout your educational and professional life. Iain Cuthbertson, provides answers to questions asked by recently-qualified dentists.

Q & A

  • Additional treatment whilst anaesthetised - 22 October 2002

    If after the patient is anaesthetised, a totally different pathology is observed, such as a small mole or other skin condition, is it not better practice to deal with it while the patient is anaesthetised?

  • Are GP trainers indemnified? - 1 April 2008

    Would MDU membership cover a claim against a GP trainer that relates to the actions of a GP registrar they have trained?

  • Can I ask for assistance when I am retired? - 30 July 2010

    Q - When I am retired, will I still be entitled to ask the MDU for assistance for claims arising from clinical incidents which occurred when I was an MDU member?

  • Consent for a repetitive procedure - 22 October 2002

    In the course of prolonged treatment a patient is having the same repetitive procedure. Would getting his consent only at the start of the course of treatment be enough?

  • Consent for a stomach washout - 13 November 2002

    How is it possible to get consent for a stomach washout in an emergency from a patient who is brought to hospital after an overdose that might endanger his life?

  • Consent for blood test - 13 November 2002

    If a patient gives consent for blood to be taken for examination, do I need to specify what tests are to be performed?

  • Consent for teaching purposes - 22 October 2002

    Do I need to have specific consent to teach practical procedures on a patient who has been anaesthetised?

  • FAQs on MDU practice group schemes - 23 October 2006

    The MDU's membership helpline often receives enquiries from practice managers concerning the benefits of MDU practice group scheme membership. The following Q&As may help answer some of the more common questions.

  • Intimate search of a prisoner - 13 November 2002

    Is a doctor or nurse legally obliged to carry out an intimate seach on a prisoner who does not consent to it?

  • Is payment of a bill sufficient consent? - 22 October 2002

    Do I need to get consent from a private patient in a private hospital, who apparently consents to a procedure by being admitted and agreeing to pay the bill?

  • Membership FAQs – practice staff - 1 April 2008

    The MDU's membership helpline often receives enquiries from practice staff concerning their MDU membership. The following Q&As may help answer some of the more common questions.

  • Missing consent form - 22 October 2002

    If the consent form is missing from the clinical records, is it possible to defence a claim of negligence?

  • Should I warn of wisdom tooth extraction risk? - 23 October 2002

    Some procedures carry significant risk: should I warn all patients who are to have lower wisdom teeth extracted of the possibility of postoperative paraesthesia of the tongue?

  • What is a session? - 19 May 2010

    Not all subscriptions are sessional based, but if yours is, the following guide to calculating a session may help.

Case Histories

  • A bad case of indigestion - 21 May 2010

    A GP faced a claim following the death of a patient from upper gastrointestinal haemorrhage. The patient had previously presented with epigastric pain and the family alleged his death could have been prevented if the GP had made an early referral for endoscopy.

  • A claim comes out of the past - 1 May 2009

    An Irish doctor faced a claim brought by a patient who developed chronic and intractable pain following a vasectomy. The patient alleged that the doctor had failed to warn him of the risk of long-term pain and that he would not have agreed to the procedure had he been fully informed.

  • A complaint out–of–time? - 1 May 2009

    A GP sought help from the MDU in dealing with a patient’s complaint made some four years following the events complained of. The patient alleged she had become dependent on antidepressants prescribed inappropriately by the GP following the loss of her mother.

  • A complaint resolved - 1 November 2003

    Complaints based on an inaccurate interpretation of the facts can often be resolved by a speedy explanation to the complainant.

  • A contraindicated headache-prescription - 26 April 2006

    When treatments for the alleviation of everyday symptoms are inappropriately prescribed, they can have significant implications for a patient's existing condition.

  • A covert matter - 1 May 2009

    A GP practice sought advice from the MDU on the legal and ethical implications of administering medicines to elderly nursing home residents without their knowledge.

  • A late night caller - 1 May 2009

    A GP sought help from the MDU in dealing with an ex-patient whose unwanted telephone calls to the GP’s home had begun to take on a threatening tone.

  • A midwife's duty of care - 1 February 2003

    In this case history the question at issue was whether a midwife who shared care with and was supervised by a GP was liable for her own acts and omissions when the GP was unable to attend a patient.

  • A mistaken fistula - 1 February 2003

    The MDU spends a considerable amount of money defending members' claims. As most claimants are in receipt of legal aid, the MDU rarely recovers its defence costs if a claim is successfully repudiated - but in this case, we did.

  • A rarity within a rarity: when presenting symptoms don't quite add up - 31 August 2004

    In cases where there has been a delayed diagnosis, or where a diagnosis is made only after an unfortunate outcome, the successful defence of a claim often depends on whether the practitioners involved have investigated the presenting symptoms to an appropriate degree.

  • A sensitive issue - 1 February 2002

    A dentist used a diamond bur in an air rotor to strip the interdental enamel from imbricated lower incisors causing severe sensitivity for the patient.

  • A view from abroad - 31 May 2008

    The following case study illustrates the importance of informing patients of the lifespan of their dental treatments and anticipating a timetable of future treatment.

  • A whiter shade of pale - 31 May 2008

    DDU members are reporting an increasing number of complaints and claims arising from the provision of tooth bleaching. The following case history concerns that of a young man whose expectations proved too great.

  • Abnormal results missed - 1 January 2002

    Two doctors failed to check the results of a blood test which resulted in delay in diagnosis of muscular dystrophy.

  • Acute epiglottitis - 1 May 2002

    A GP failed to diagnose acute epilglottitis. Despite treatment once diagnosed, the child died.

  • Administrative error - 1 February 2002

    A number of administrative errors resulted in delay treating LR7 and its subsequent unnecessary loss.

  • Alleged assault - 1 May 2009

    A GP locum sought help from the MDU after being made the subject of a complaint alleging that he had touched a patient inappropriately during a physical examination.

  • Ambulance arrangements - 1 December 2002

    A patient alleged that a doctor should have called a 999 ambulance rather than an urgent one. The case was successfully defended.

  • An optimistic claim - 5 June 2002

    A patient's tooth fractured during extraction and the remainder of the root was surgically removed 5 months later. The patient claimed damages in excess of £60,000, most of which related to loss of earnings.

  • Asthma resulting in hypoxic brain damage - 1 June 2002

    A known asthmatic declined steroid treatment in pregnancy, resulting in a very severe asthmatic episode. Despite bedside treatment from her GP, ambulance delays meant that hypoxic brain damage could not be prevented.

  • Breast abscess or cancer: a matter of judgement - 1 December 2006

    A youngish woman, with a history of successfully treated axillary abscesses and no family history of breast cancer, presented to her GP with a tender breast lump and was treated with antibiotics. When later she was referred to a busy breast clinic she was found to have extensive carcinoma.

  • Cerebral palsy after forceps delivery - 1 January 2002

    A claim for damages went to trial 20 years after a baby was delivered by caesarean section after a failed attempt at forceps delivery.

  • Claim for alleged inappropriate treatment defended - 28 February 2007

    At the first attendance of a new patient, a dentist noted substantial dental decay and a chronic periodontal condition. In particular UL6 was heavily restored with gross recurrent caries around the margins of the restoration.

  • Claim for misread records - 1 January 2002

    A solicitor sought compensation after an expert orthopaedic surgeon misread the clinical records.

  • Communication error - 4 October 2005

    An SHO was coming to the end of his first week in Accident and Emergency. It was 7 pm on Friday and he should have gone home over an hour ago but the department was busy and his Registrar asked him if he could see one last patient.

  • Compartment syndrome after tibial fracture - 1 January 2002

    A patient developed severe anterior and posterior compartment syndrome after tibial fracture caused circulatory embarrassment resulting in amputation.

  • Damage from air polisher? - 7 April 2002

    Alleged damage to upper central incisor during tobacco stain removal with an air-jet polisher by a dental hygienist.

  • Delay diagnosing appendicitis - 21 May 2009

    A father brought a claim against a GP following the delayed diagnosis of appendicitis in a child who presented with symptoms consistent with a gastrointestinal viral infection. It was alleged that the diagnosis could have been made earlier had the GP conducted a rectal examination.

  • Delay in diagnosing appendicitis - 1 June 2007

    A GP received a letter of claim more than four years after a consultation, alleging he was negligent for failing to refer a patient with abdominal pain to hospital.

  • Delay in diagnosis of spinal abscess - 1 January 2002

    A patient with cellulitis in the legs developed non-specific signs which were eventually shown to be caused by an extradural spinal abscess.

  • Delayed cauda equina diagnosis: when symptoms aren't apparent - 1 December 2006

    While lower back pain can have a variety of causes, cauda equina syndrome has very specific symptoms which we featured in our Journal article in July 2004. In this case, a GP member made a home visit to a colleague's patient who, both at the time she was first seen and on the following day, displayed none of the characteristic signs.

  • Delayed decompression - 1 January 2002

    Late decompression of a patient's shin resulted in lateral popliteal nerve palsy and weakness of dorsiflexion and inversion of the left foot.

  • Delayed diagnosis of a broken wrist - 1 January 2002

    A patient fell outside his doctor's surgery but the delay in diagnosing his fractured wrist led to a claim for negligence.

  • Delayed diagnosis of Hodgkins disease - 1 October 2003

    A prolonged presentation of Hodgkins disease was initially diagnosed as asthma, and appeared to respond to asthma treatment. Although a case was brought against the doctor for delay in diagnosis, supportive expert evidence was received and the case was resisted.

  • Delayed diagnosis of melanoma - 1 January 2002

    An initial error in diagnosis was compounded by follow up mistakes which in turn led to a 4 year delay in diagnosis of malignant melonoma in a young woman.

  • Delayed diagnosis of rectal cancer - 26 April 2006

    When a patient attends frequently, even with an apparently benign symptom, is it time to consider further investigations?

  • Delayed Diagnosis of Seminoma - 1 January 2002

    Two GPs treated a testicular swelling as orchitis resulting in a four month delay in diagnosis of a seminoma.

  • Delayed referral - 1 March 2002

    Displacement of upper third molar into maxillary antrum. Failure to determine its position and arrange prompt and appropriate specialist referral.

  • Denture dissatisfaction - 10 December 2002

    A patient complains of pain, distress and cosmetic embarrassment following the fitting of a new implant retained overdenture.

  • Detached retina - 1 January 2002

    A GP failed to diagnose a retinal detachment resulting in irreversible visual loss.

  • Difficult children - 3 July 2002

    Anybody who has pointed a toothbrush in the direction of a child will appreciate the difficulties encountered by dentists when treating them. These two case histories involving uncontrollable children show how a complaint can involve the GDC, the pol

  • Displaced root - 6 January 2002

    Displacement of palatal root on extraction into the maxillary antrum which needed to be removed under general anaesthesia.

  • Don’t forget the small print - 1 May 2009

    A junior doctor sought help from the MDU after being referred to the GMC by a hospital trust. He had inadvertently failed to disclose a prior caution and a conviction where requested to do so on an application form.

  • Driving licence revoked - 1 December 2003

    A patient alleged that a GP was wrong to inform the DVLA that she was driving against medical advice. The case was successfully rebutted.

  • Drunk in charge of bicycle - 1 January 2002

    A blood sample for blood alcohol levels was taken for the police from an intoxicated patient after a bicycle accident.

  • Dupuytren's contracture - 1 January 2002

    A man developed severe reflex sympathetic dystrophy after an operation for dupuytren's contracture.

  • Ear syringing - 1 July 2003

    Ear syringing is a common procedure which can occasionally result in serious damage to a patient. These two non-UK cases highlight the importance of warning a patient of the risks involved in even a "minor" procedure.

  • Eardrum perforated - 1 January 2002

    A practice nurse perforated an eardrum whilst syringing a patient's ear.

  • Endotracheal tube retained in stomach - 1 January 2002

    An anaesthetist used a plain ET tube to assist the passage of a nasogastric tube, however this was forgotten and remained in the stomach of the patient for over seven years.

  • Excellent records prevented claim - 1 January 2002

    A deaf woman became pregnant again shortly after a caesarean section. Detailed records showed that she had been offered a wide range of contraceptive options and the claim was withdrawn.

  • Factual dispute resolved by weather report - 15 April 2003

    This case shows the lengths to which the MDU must sometimes go in order to defend a member's reputation and to ensure that an unjustified claim is rejected.

  • Failed laparoscopic surgery - 1 January 2002

    A patient became pregnant after sterilisation, both fallope rings were found to have been wrongly applied.

  • Failed vasectomy - 1 October 2003

    While the patient did not succeed in his attempt to sue a GP for negligence after a failed vasectomy, this case highlights the need for GPs to use detailed consent forms which are explicit about the slight risks of a late return to fertility.

  • Failure to adequately monitor liver and lung function - 1 December 2007

    A GP faced a claim for damages which alleged that his failure to carry out routine periodic blood tests on a patient prescribed long-term antibacterial treatment resulted in liver damage and other complications.

  • Failure to diagnose meningitis - 1 October 2002

    Nine years after the event, a parent alleged that a GP failed to diagnose meningitis in her child. The GP had since died and the medical records had been destroyed.

  • Failure to exclude malaria - 1 January 2002

    A GP failed to consider malaria in a patient who had been travelling in Ghana - the patient then died.

  • Fainting following extraction - 27 February 2003

    A 12-year old fainted following administration of anaesthetic for a series of extractions. The mother alleged that the dentist had injected her child five times giving excess anaesthetic.

  • Feline tales - 1 December 2002

    Cats may have nine lives, but the rest of us have to make do with one. And even that can be blighted by a feline friend, as Dr Nicholas Norwell found when he opened some MDU files.

  • Fractured instruments - 7 April 2002

    A patient was left with fragments of fractured instruments in two upper pre-molar teeth following root canal treatment. Subsequently both teeth were heavily restored but have a poor prognosis.

  • GDC Professional Conduct Committee - 1 April 2002

    A dentist was brought before the Professional Conduct Committee for failing to advise the parents personally of his decision to remove their children from his list.

  • Granting a deathbed wish - 1 May 2009

    A GP sought advice from the MDU following a request made by a dying patient that sensitive but relevant clinical information be withheld from his death certificate. The GP was sympathetic to the patient’s wishes but was concerned that complying with the request might not be permissible.

  • Haematoma after venepuncture - 1 January 2002

    A GP failed to give proper advice to a patient on warfarin who experienced a haematoma after venepuncture.

  • Haemophilus influenza meningitis - 10 July 2002

    Failure to diagnose meningitis in a child whose symptoms included sleepiness, a high fever, vomiting and tiredness.

  • Inadequate tongue protection - 3 June 2002

    Although a dentist had taken precautions, the patient sued because her tongue bad been cut during treatment. The dentist was vulnerable to the allegation of negligence and a settlement was made.

  • Inadequate treatment - 10 July 2002

    On the advice of her previous dentist, a patient complained of substandard treatment following a lengthy period of restorative work.

  • Incomplete notes on femur fracture - 1 October 2005

    Thorough examination and recording of findings is a vital part of good clinical practice, and can assist in the defence of claims at a later date.

  • Inhaled tooth - 12 July 2002

    A child inhaled a tooth during extraction; obstructing his breathing and requiring hospital treatment to obtain respiratory control. The case went to trial and raised some important issues about correct procedure.

  • Lack of notes - 1 March 2004

    Adequate note-taking is an essential part of good clinical practice, and failure to do so can prejudice the defence of a claim.

  • Late referral of a pregnant woman - 19 March 2002

    Organisational problems resulted in the delayed referral of a pregnant woman. She was too late for prenatal diagnostic testing and subsequently delivered a child suffering from down's syndrome who died from heart problems.

  • Latrogenic chemical arthritis - 1 March 2002

    A patient's knee was wrongly irrigated with an irritant solution resulting in early osteo-arthritis.

  • Loss of vision - 1 January 2002

    A five year old boy lost sight in one eye after a delay in diagnosis of his traumatic retinal detachment.

  • Malignant melanoma - 4 January 2004

    A patient died from a melanoma whose primary site was the nail bed. Expert advice suggested that the GP was not negligent for missing this rare diagnosis.

  • Management of dental pain - 19 December 2006

    A dentist provided an emergency consultation on a Thursday evening for a patient complaining of severe pain in the upper right quadrant of her mouth. The patient was not an NHS registered patient at the practice and the dentist clearly explained that it would therefore be necessary for her to pay a private fee of £50.

  • Migrated coil - 4 March 2004

    A patient had a coil fitted which subsequently migrated into the peritoneal cavity. The patient alleged the coil had been fitted negligently.

  • Misdiagnosed root fracture - 5 April 2002

    Failure to diagnose root fracture resulting in inappropriate treatment and inevitable loss of an upper central incisor.

  • Misdiagnosis of acute pulpitis - 1 September 2002

    Failure to diagnose acute pulpitis as opposed to wisdom tooth symptons and administrative delays in arranging follow up treatment.

  • Misdiagnosis of bony metastases - 1 January 2002

    A patient was incorrectly diagnosed and treated for bony metastases over a number of years. Subsequent x-rays and scans revealed degenerative changes relating to osteoporosis.

  • Misdiagnosis of pneumonia - 23 April 2002

    A complaint which is based on a misunderstanding of the facts can sometimes be resolved once the true situation is made clear.

  • Missed ankle fracture - 1 October 2002

    An incorrect interpretation of an X ray in casualty led to a long delay in the diagnosis of a serious ankle fracture.

  • Missed deep vein thrombosis - 1 May 2003

    The patient refused admission to hospital for exclusion of the diagnosis of a deep venous thrombosis. She re-presented with breathlessness and it appears that insufficient weight was given to the earlier presentation with leg pain, as she subsequently died of pulmonary embolism.

  • Missed eclampsia - 1 July 2003

    A GP failed to diagnose eclampsia resulting in the need for an emergency casaerian section.

  • Missed pregnancy - 1 June 2003

    A patient alleged negligence against her GP for failing to diagnose her pregnancy. On the basis that two negative pregnancy tests had been performed, and because the patient was overweight, the case was successfully rejected.

  • No alert to patient penicillin allergy - 26 April 2006

    Inadvertently prescribing a drug that triggers an allergic reaction can have serious - sometimes fatal consequences. GP records need to carry clear and visible warnings.

  • No negligence - 23 March 2002

    Just because a complication has occurred it does not mean that there has been negligence. Unfortunately, even when negligence has not occurred there is still the possibility of litigation.

  • Non-contemporary notes - 1 June 2002

    Just prior to trial, a GP revealed that he had innocently re-written a patient's clincial note to provide further clarity and destroyed the true contemporaneous note. This made the case difficult to defend.

  • Not to be tolerated - 1 May 2009

    A practice manager sought advice from the MDU about the possibility of removing from the practice list a patient who had been racially abusive about one of the doctors.

  • Once bitten - 1 May 2009

    A GP sought advice from the MDU after a prescription error resulted in a patient taking the wrong drug. Although the GP issued an apology the patient later brought a claim alleging that the drug had contributed to her involvement in a road traffic accident.

  • Opthalmic case study - 1 December 2007

    The following is a fictitious claim based on salient features of actual cases handled by the MDU on behalf of its members regarding opthalmic issues.

  • Patient request for cessation of ventilation - 15 November 2006

    A young patient with motor neurone disease requested cessation of ventilation. The case received a great deal of publicity at the time and it is a significant judgment.

  • Patient responsibility - 1 February 2003

    A patient was prescribed a topical treatment which she used incorrectly, resulting in skin damage. She failed in a claim against the GP when it was found that she had been given appropriate directions by the GP and that the medicine was clearly labelled with a warning about applying to normal skin.

  • Penicillin allergy - 11 September 2002

    A dentist overlooked a patient's recorded allergy to penicillin and prescribed a course of amoxycillin. The patient subsequently suffered an anaphylactic shock.

  • Permanent scarring - 5 October 2002

    The patient had scarring at the corner of her mouth allegedly from damage during routine surgery.

  • Persistent knee trouble - 21 May 2009

    A GP faced a claim for allegedly failing to refer a 12 year old boy who presented repeatedly with knee pain over an eighteen month period. The child was eventually diagnosed with a slipped femoral epiphysis and was left with some deformity following surgical fixation.

  • Prescription error - 9 May 2002

    A patient was prescribed amoxycillin but his dental records indicated he was allergic to penicillin.

  • Pressure to breach confidentiality - 1 October 2002

    A GP was pressurised by the police to provide a paient's name after a patient disclosed their intention to commit suicide.

  • Prostate cancer - 1 January 2002

    A consultant physician failed to diagnose prostatic cancer in a patient with back pain.

  • RCT hazard - 2 May 2002

    Ingestion of an instrument during root canal treatment which subsequently caused the patient symptons.

  • Recalcitrant appendicitis - 1 March 2003

    A surgeon's management of an unusual case of recalcitrant appendicitis was successfully defended by the MDU's legal team.

  • Refusal to pay - 1 January 2002

    A patient refused to pay her fees after labial surgery and instituted criminal and civil complaints. When these were unsuccessful, she shot and wounded the surgeon.

  • Repeat prescribing - 14 January 2002

    A practice with 10,000 patients may issue as many as 25,000 repeat prescriptions each year. A routine and repetitive task, it is one in which mistakes can easily be made and from which a significant percentage of MDU claims arise.

  • Repeat prescribing errors - 1 January 2002

    A collection of cases following MDU research into errors involving repeat prescribing.

  • Retained root - 5 September 2002

    Dentist unable to locate mesio-buccal root during surgical extraction of UR7. The patient did not return the following week as planned and two months later needed surgery for an oral-antral fistula.

  • Retained root - 20 December 2002

    A dentist found himself the subject of a claim about a retained root from a previous extraction by another dentist years before.

  • Ruptured appendix - 1 May 2002

    A child with persistent abdominal pains was visited by different GPs on five separate occasions. On being admitted to hospital after the fifth visit, the child was found to have a ruptured appendix.

  • Same day radial keratotomy - 1 January 2002

    An ophthalmologist operated on a woman on the same day she was seen in clinic, without a GP referral, nor eliciting a full medical history.

  • Scorpion sting - 23 March 2002

    After a child was stung by a scorpion, the GP faced a difficult decision about whether or not to administer anti-serum. He decided not to and the child died.

  • Sedation error - 23 April 2004

    Even though an IM injection was deemed immediately necessary to sedate a violent patient, expert advice to the MDU suggested that it was unacceptable to give the injection into the deltoid muscle. The case was settled for a small sum.

  • Sepsis untreated - 23 April 2003

    After a joint injection, a patient developed suppurative arthritis and died from complications. Expert evidence was critical of a failure to provide adequate follow up to the patient, and the claim was settled.

  • Steroid-induced glaucoma - 1 March 2002

    Long-term prescribing of steroids for atopic eczema resulted in glaucoma. Delay in referring patient after visual symptoms developed caused severe visual impairment.

  • Streptococcal septicaemia - 9 December 2002

    A GP was accused of negligence as a result of a delay in admitting a baby with streptococcal septicaemia to hospital. Following an expert's evidence that the GP had "acted in a wholly professional way", the judge did not find the GP negligent in any respect.

  • Tension pneumothorax during anaesthesia - 1 May 2003

    A woman was admitted for laryngoscopy and oesophagoscopy. During anaesthesia, the catheter impacted in a small bronchus resulting in the rupture of multiple alveoli and terminal bronchioles.

  • Testicular pain after vasectomy - 1 January 2002

    A patient had a sperm granuloma after a vasectomy caused testicular pain, but the case was successfully defended at trial.

  • The hazards of foreign travel - 1 December 2007

    A GP was accused of delay in diagnosing deep vein thrombosis after failing to spot the condition in a woman who, following an exotic holiday, attended her practice with a spider bite to the leg.

  • To whom it may concern - 1 May 2009

    A GP sought advice from the MDU in dealing with a request for a letter concerning the health of two young children. The request came from a family member who did not have parental responsibility and the GP was uncomfortable with the suggested content of the letter.

  • Trauma to floor of mouth - 4 April 2003

    The rotating bur of the air turbine caused a laceration to the patient's mouth which led to hospital treatment being needed some months later.

  • Treatment of diabetic patient - 22 January 2002

    A patient died of complications related to gangrene and it was not possible to defend the case because of a failure to treat intensively, coupled with a failure to re-examine the patient, and an insufficiently urgent hospital referral.

  • Undiagnosed oral cancer - 9 November 2002

    A patient visited her dentist with a large painful ulcer on the side of her tongue. The dentist thought the ulcer was of traumatic origin and provided routine care but the patient died within a year.

  • Unexpected complication of dental extraction - 5 February 2002

    The unexpected complication of a fractured tuberosity during the removal under general anaesthesia of an upper second molar. The patient was immediately referred to a specialist unit.

  • Unnecessary hysterectomy? - 1 March 2003

    This case highlights the potential pitfalls of dealing with a patient who demands interventional treatment. From a risk management perspective, asking a colleague for a second opinion in difficult and potentially controversial cases may be helpful.

  • Unsubstantiated allegation of negligent delivery - 22 January 2002

    Sometimes a very rare condition can be confused with the outcome of negligent treatment. The MDU ensures that all cases are properly investigated with the aid of expert advice, and defends cases wherever it is possible and prudent to do so.

  • Ureteric damage - not negligent - 1 January 2002

    A judge in Ireland stated that damage to the ureter during hysterectomy is an accepted hazard and not invariably negligent.

  • Wedding teeth - 1 October 2002

    A dentist received an adverse dental reference officer's report regarding the maintenance of anterior teeth and the provision of a partial denture for a patient with severe chronic periodontitis and extensive caries.

  • Working beyond competency - 4 October 2005

    A paediatrics SHO was six weeks into the job. She had received three days of induction training at the start of the post. It was departmental policy that new SHOs were accompanied to deliveries by a registrar for their first month in post.

  • Wrong blood - 1 May 2009

    A junior doctor sought help from the MDU following an adverse incident on the labour ward. The doctor had inadvertently mixed up blood samples taken from two patients, resulting in a ‘near miss’ when one of the patients later required a blood transfusion.

  • Wrong prescription - 9 December 2002

    The MDU settled a case in which penicillin had been prescribed instead of penicillamine to a patient with rheumatoid arthritis. There were some concerns about the safety of prescribing systems.

  • Wrong speculum - 1 December 2003

    A GP mistakenly re-uses a speculum on a patient, potentially exposing her to a serious communicable disease.

  • Wrong testis removed - 1 January 2002

    A patient suffered a devastating psychological reaction after his only functioning testicle was removed.

  • Wrong tooth extracted - 6 March 2002

    An orthodontist recommended removal of a patient's upper first pre-molar teeth but unfortunately the dentist removed the equivalent lower teeth by mistake.

Advice Calls

  • A colleague under the influence - 21 April 2006

    A GP sought advice about a female colleague who had been turning up late recently and there was suspicions of alcohol abuse

  • A gift too far? - 25 April 2006

    A doctor receives a cheque from one of his patients' on his birthday, he rang the MDU advisory helpline for advice.

  • Access to child‘s medical records - 1 June 2000

    An estranged father requested access to his daughters medical records pending court proceedings over access. The records contained reference to the mother's health and details of distress following access.

  • Advance refusal of an epidural - 13 November 2002

    A patient stated in her birth plan that she did not want an epidural. During labour she was in severe pain and asked for the decision to be reversed.

  • Advice line dilemma - prescribing - 1 May 2005

    The MDU's medico-legal advisers are available on the 24-hour Advisory Helpline all day, every day, and out-of-hours for ememrgencies, providing members with instant advice on medico-legal and ethical issues.

  • Altered prescription - 1 January 2001

    Is a doctor allowed to confirm to an employer that a sick note has been fraudulently altered.

  • Antique gun collection - 1 January 1998

    A psychiatrist treating a patient under the Mental Health Act is aware that the patient has a collection of guns at home and has concerns he might use them.

  • Armed robbery - 1 January 2000

    Should a doctor disclose information to the police about a group of patients if one of them might be a threat to the public?

  • Assisting police with enquiries - 1 May 2002

    Whilst treating a patient brought in by the police, an SpR thought she may have seen the patient with a knife. How much information should she tell the police?

  • Beyond the call of duty - 26 April 2006

    A medical SHO sought advice as she had been rostered on to be on call for acute medicine but had not been on call for this before.

  • Breach of confidentiality - 1 January 2002

    A GP mistakenly gave a patient's husband a referral letter disclosing that the patient was planning a termination of a pregnancy by another man.

  • Capacity - an ethical dilemma - 31 January 2008

    The MDU’s freephone 24-hour advisory helpline is available to answer members’ medico-legal queries and can provide support in difficult circumstances. Dr Kathryn Leask, an MDU medico-legal adviser, gives an interesting dilemma of a patient who does not wish to be treated.

  • Capacity and withholding consent - 1 May 2005

    A GP was visited by an elderly patient and his daughter, the daughter was concerned as the patient occasionally seemed confused. The GP examined the patient who then refused further tests, the GP called the MDU for advice on the patient's refusal for further treatment.

  • Changing a child's surname - 1 January 1998

    A patient wanted to change the surnames of her children following a break-up and wanted to amend the medical records accordingly.

  • Chaperones - 1 December 2007

    Here we look at some composite, fictitious cases based on actual MDU records concerning chaperones.

  • Comments the patient shouldn't see - 1 January 2002

    Should a locum disclose medical records which contain an insulting comment about the patient or should he get the author's consent.

  • Confidence at sea - 1 January 1998

    This article discusses whether a doctor should disclose information obtained without consent when the disclosure is felt to be in the public interest

  • Consent from third parties - 2 June 2002

    An insurance company dealing with a travel claim provided a copy of a consent form signed by the patient's husband. Is this valid for disclosure?

  • Consenting an adult with dementia - 1 January 1998

    This advice call talks about performing surgery on a patient with dementia without their consent, and their next of kin is some distance away

  • Death threats: is there a duty to warn? - 1 January 1998

    This advice call refers to a patient who told his GP that he was going to kill someone and what the GP should do. This advice call also provides insight into the landmark Tarasoff case

  • Diabetes vs animal rights - 1 January 1998

    This advice call talks of a patient who refused treatment because of her belief even when it meant saving her life

  • Disclosure of confidential information to the police. - 1 December 2006

    A patient was brought by the police to casualty complaining of abdominal pains. She told the casualty doctor she had swallowed heroin wrapped in condoms but was not prepared to stay in hospital. Should the doctor breach confidentiality and inform the police; enabling the patient to be monitored further?

  • Duty of Confidentiality - 1 January 2001

    A GP was asked by police to confirm whether a patient who was a known drug addict had attended his surgery to obtain controlled drugs.

  • Extra-marital dilemma - 1 January 1998

    This advice call talks about a GP asked to represent a husband in divorce proceedings when both parties are patient's of his

  • Falsified prescriptions - 1 January 1998

    This advice call addresses the issue of whether information can be disclosed to the police

  • Fees for notes - 1 April 2003

    What is the maximum that can be charged for providing copies of notes?

  • Get husband's permission - 1 January 1998

    This advice call talks about information in reports that is not obtained directly from a patient

  • Have I admitted liability? - 1 June 2001

    This advice call asks if offering your condolences to a family of a deceased patient (when they had criticised your management style), is admitting liability

  • Irresponsible act - 1 January 2000

    Should a doctor disclose information to the police about a gun given to a suicidal patient?

  • Keeping private records at home - 1 October 2000

    This article talks about the issue of storage and retention of records in regards to how long records are to be kept

  • Legal advice on criticism of coroner - 1 June 2001

    This advice call makes reference to a member seeking advice on what they can do when they feel they have been defamed by the coroner

  • Liver transplantation - an ethical dilemma - 1 January 1998

    This advice call refers to a patient who requires a liver transplant to greatly improve his chance of living but has expressed the request for no further treatment

  • Medical records - 1 January 2000

    Should a doctor remove an entry in the patients notes that they believe is incorrect?

  • MMR dilemma - 1 May 2002

    A GP was asked to administer the MMR vaccine to a child but both parents were not in agreement.

  • Non-urgent appointment - 1 May 2002

    A patient turned up at a Saturday morning surgery for emergency patients demanding a repeat prescription for sleeping tablets.

  • Nursing home prescriptions - 1 January 2000

    Should a GP use a prescription chart for medications prescribed for residents of a nursing home?

  • Observing parental reprimand - 1 May 2005

    A practice nurse witnessed a mother slapping her child, she called the MDU for advice as to whether she should take any action.

  • Parental Responsibility - 1 January 1998

    This advice call talks about the parental responsibility agreement and the purpose and use it serves

  • Patient confession - 1 June 2007

    A patient confessed to her GP that she had been shoplifting due to feeling down. Should the GP notify the police?

  • Permission of coroner to perform a transplant - 1 June 2001

    This advice call asks if a transplant surgeon can perform a transplant on a deceased patient as soon as possible when the death has been reported to the coroner because of its nature

  • Police request for CCTV footage - 1 June 2007

    A patient had her purse and credit cards stolen when attending a GP surgery. Would the GP breach client confidentiality by giving the CCTV footage to the police?

  • Possession of drugs - 6 October 2001

    Should the police be informed if a patient is found with an illegal drug?

  • Prescription of amoxycillin - 3 September 2001

    A dentist administered a 3g dose of dispersible amoxycillin to a child instead of the recommended 750mg dose.

  • Record keeping - 1 April 2002

    Failure to complete a dental treatment plan (or form FP17DC) could leave a dentist open to an allegation of breach of terms of service.

  • Reluctant witness - 1 January 1998

    This advice call brings up the issue of a whether a GP should issue a sick certificate when they do not feel one is needed for medical reasons

  • Retention of medical records - 19 March 2004

    The MDU is advising doctors to increase the amount of time they retain patient records, something it says may be made easier by the introduction of electronic patient records.

  • Ring of confidence - 1 December 2007

    Confidentiality and disclosure problems are one of the key areas of concern for members ringing the MDU 24-hour medico-legal advice line.

  • Should GP's arrange paternity testing? - 1 October 2000

    This article concerns a request for a paternity test to be arranged by a GP by a young mother, and the advice given to her regarding the correct procedure and channels to go down.

  • Suspected child abuse - 1 April 2003

    Following suspected child abuse, the police requested sight of the fathers medical records.

  • Taking the wrong X rays - 1 January 1998

    This article explains when a 71 year old patient complained of knee pain after a fall which misled the Casualty office and a hip fracture was missed

  • The abandoned baby - 1 January 1998

    This advice call talks about whether a GP should disclose the identity of an abandoned baby's mother when she is a patient of his

  • The whole truth - 1 October 1998

    This advice calls talks of a GP asked to not disclose certain facts when writing a report for one of his patients

  • Unnecessary fillings? - 1 September 2001

    A patient complained of unnecessary fillings 13 years after having the treatment.

  • Unnecessary Hysterectomy? - 1 January 1998

    This advice call asks if it necessary to apply to the court to perform a hysterectomy for menorrhagia on an adult who lacks the capacity to consent

  • Unsatisfactory bridge - 6 February 2002

    Following the patient's initial approval, a dentist fitted a bridge which the patient subsequently complained about. The dentist wanted to know if he could charge for the remake.

  • Violent consequences - 6 September 2001

    A patient's claim of police assault and loss of a tooth did not agree with the dental records which showed the tooth in question was extracted 6 months earlier.

  • Wanting to die? - 19 December 2006

    A GP was called to an unconscious patient who had left a note saying he wanted to die. The GP contacted the MDU as he wished to know if he could accept the man's written instructions not to intervene.

News

  • British pharma industry updates its code of practice - 19 December 2006

    When branded medicines can have life-and-death implications, it is vital for pharma companies to deal ethically with healthcare professionals. The Association of the British Pharmaceutical Industry outlines the provisions of its recently updated code of practice.

  • Cautionary tales and advice - 14 August 2007

    Our teams deal with a wide variety of cases ranging from advice on approaching a tricky situation through to complaints and claims. We've compiled a selection of these which we hope you will enjoy reading.

  • DDU awards dental teacher of the year - 24 March 2003

    Three finalists battled it out to be voted the DDU Dental Teacher of the Year. Choosing the overall winner was extremely difficult.

  • DDU Educational Awards 2006 - 9 June 2006

    The DDU is pleased to present its 2006 Educational Awards which recognises and rewards outstanding dental educators.

  • DDU GDP e-journal December 2004 - 1 December 2004

    Risk management in endodontics, NHS complaints procedure and guidance on latex allergy. All covered in this pdf version of the DDU GDP e-journal December 2004.

  • DDU GDP e-journal January 2003 - 5 January 2003

    Tooth bleaching, Good Samaritan acts and a guide to Continuing Professional Development (CPD). It's all in this pdf version of the DDU e-journal.

  • DDU GDP e-journal January 2004 - 28 January 2004

    Concern about a colleague's standard of care, combining NHS and Private Dental Treatment and the Freedom of Information (Scotland) Act 2002. It's all covered in this pdf version of the January 2004 GDP e-journal

  • DDU GDP e-journal July 2003 - 5 July 2003

    How long you should keep patient's records for, behind the scenes of a claim and risk management in cancer screening. It's all covered in this pdf version of the DDU e-journal.

  • DDU Journal April 2009 - 28 April 2009

    This information packed edition includes three pages of 'Advice line dilemmas', it also covers the latest dental news and case studies.

  • DDU Journal August 2006 - 5 October 2006

    Regulation of the dental team, 50 years of the GDC, advice on refusal of treatment - it's covered in this pdf version of the DDU Journal.

  • DDU Journal December 2007 - 19 December 2007

    Conscious sedation, complaints myth-busters - it's covered in this pdf version of the DDU Journal.

  • DDU Journal December 2009 - 18 December 2009

    This edition of the DDU Journal looks at the power of the word 'sorry', a case study on breaching GDC guidelines and a wrap-up of the 2009 DDU Educational Awards.

  • DDU Journal February 2007 - 12 February 2007

    Tooth bleaching, treatment plans, apologising to patients, fitness to practise - it's covered in this pdf version of the DDU Journal.

  • DDU Journal May 2005 - 10 May 2006

    Managing your money as a dental student, advice on becoming an associate and risk management in endodontics - it's covered in this pdf version of the DDU Journal.

  • DDU Journal May 2008 - 1 May 2008

    The challenges of cosmetic dentistry today, the rewards of vocational training - it's covered in this pdf version of the DDU Journal.

  • DDU recently qualified dentist e-journal February 2003 - 1 February 2003

    A look at common complaints or claims, an explanation of CPD and what to do if you suspect a colleague of alcohol abuse. It's all covered in this pdf version of our e-journal for recently qualified dentists.

  • DDU recently qualified dentist e-journal July 2004 - 1 July 2004

    Maintaining and retaining patient records, CPD and vocational training and an inapporiate diagnosis case study. It's all covered in this pdf version of the DDU e-journal for recently qualified dentists.

  • DDU recently qualified dentist e-journal May 2003 - 1 May 2003

    How long should you retain patient records? Top tips to avoid complaints and behind the scenes of a claim. It's all covered in this pdf version of the DDU e-journal for recently qualified dentists.

  • DDU recently qualified dentist e-journal October 2002 - 1 October 2003

    What you need to know about fitness to practise procedures, how to minimise risk and what do you do if asked to provide medical assistance in an emergency? It's all in this pdf version of the DDU e-journal for recently qualified dentists.

  • DDU student e-journal June 2003 - 1 June 2003

    Retaining patient records, training in the Community Dental Service and the role of your local DDU dental liaison manager. This is a pdf version of the June 2003 student e-journal.

  • DDU student e-journal March 2003 - 1 March 2003

    Help with planning your vocational training, the experiences of a recently qualified dentist and how to deal with an amorous patient. This is a pdf version of the DDU student e-journal.

  • DDU student e-journal November 2002 - 1 November 2003

    Managing your money as a student, good communication in dental practice and an elective report from Gujurat, India. It's all in the PDF version of the DDU student e-journal.

  • DDU student e-journal November 2004 - 1 November 2004

    Diagnosis of dental pain, communication skills and your dento-legal questions answered. It's all here in this pdf version of the DDU student e-journal.

  • DDU student e-journal October 2003 - 1 October 2003

    Help with planning your elective, the first in our series of important legal cases and what to do if you have concerns about a patient's previous dentist's work. It all covered in this pdf version of the DDU student e-journal.

  • DVLA updates Fitness to Drive guidelines - 17 September 2004

    The DVLA has recently updated its online Fitness to Drive guidelines and discontinued the circulation of paper copies. The September 2004 version is now available on their site.

  • Ethical Dilemmas - 1 May 2010

    A selection of short dilemmas (anonymised for confidentiality), which illustrate some of the situations where the MDU has assisted consultant members.

  • Good Samaritans - 30 June 2008

    The MDU’s advisory helpline occasionally receives calls from members worried about the possible consequences if they answer the all ‘is there a doctor in the house’. The prospect of giving assistance as a Good Samaritan can cause unnecessary anxiety among doctors, but this article seeks to dispel some of the medico-legal myths.

  • GP Good Practice Journal March 2010 - 12 March 2010

    Welcome to the inaugural issue of Good Practice, a NEW journal for MDU GP and GPST members. This edition looks at Medico-legal dilemmas posed by advances in computer technology, the GMC’s new powers to help it deal with vexatious complaints and the new amnesty facility being offered to the medical profession by HM Revenue & Customs.

  • GP interviews mean business - 28 February 2007

    You may already be thinking about applying for your first job in general practice and if so, it might be a good time to consider reviewing your interview technique and preparing yourself for something totally different.

  • GP Registrar Update – June 2008 - 11 July 2008

    This is a pdf version of the June 2008 GP Registrar Update. This issue focuses on Good Samaritan acts with some real life stories from our medico-legal advisers.

  • GP Registrar Update – September 2009 - 1 September 2009

    This issue looks at the potentially tricky area of home consultations, a fatal complication of chickenpox and the risks of unwanted attention through social networking sites.

  • GP Registrar Update – April 2004 - 1 April 2007

    This is a pdf version of the April 2004 GP Registrar Update - a journal specifically for GP registrars. In this issue we look at consent.

  • GP Registrar Update – December 2004 - 1 December 2007

    This is a pdf version of the December 2004 GP Registrar Update - a journal specifically for GP registrars. In this issue we look at complaints.

  • GP Registrar Update – January 2008 - 26 February 2008

    This is a pdf version of the January 2008 GP Registrar journal. This issue looks at the Mental Capacity Act and also provides advice for doctors applying for a partnership position in general practice.

  • GP Registrar Update – March 2009 - 3 March 2009

    This is a pdf version of the January 2008 GP Registrar journal. This issue looks at the Corporate Manslaughter Act, the dangers of sleep-working and GMC guidance on new posts.

  • GP Registrar Update – September 2003 - 18 September 2007

    This is a pdf version of GP Registrar Update - the new journal specifically for GP registrars. The theme of this edition is communication.

  • In Practice Journal December 2009 - 1 December 2009

    This issue of In Practice looks at possible dilemmas when accepting gifts from patients, removal of patients from GP practice lists and asks the question, "Are you confident about confidentiality"?

  • In practice journal May 2008 - 27 May 2008

    Electronic record keeping, setting up practice protocols and the medico-legal implications of CCTV - its all in this pdf copy of our journal for practice managers.

  • In practice journal October 2008 - 19 November 2008

    This is a PDF version of the MDU's In practice journal. This issue covers flexible working and work experience requests in practice.

  • Journal of the DDU April 2002 - 15 April 2003

    Data protection, advanced restorative dentistry and electronic patient records - it's all in this pdf version of the Journal of the DDU April 2002.

  • Journal of the MDU April 2003 - 1 April 2007

    Behind the scenes of a claim, accompanying group foreign travel and a review of GMC complaints. It's all this pdf version of the MDU journal.

  • Journal of the MDU July 2004 - 13 August 2007

    The diagnosis of Cauda Equina Syndrome, hospital record keeping and advice on being a professional witness - all covered in this pdf version of the MDU journal.

  • Journal of the MDU May 2002 - 24 May 2007

    Adverse incident reporting, data protection and a review of GP paediatric claims. It's all in this pdf version of the MDU journal May 2002.

  • Journal of the MDU October 2002 - 11 October 2007

    Confidentiality in criminality, services for sick doctors and orthopaedic claims. Download the Journal of the MDU October 2002.

  • Journal of the MDU September 2003 - 20 September 2007

    A members' court case diary, the role of the health service ombudsman and the importance of chaperones. It's all in this pdf version of the September 2003 journal.

  • Junior doctors training - 14 April 2005

    The MDU has always maintained that good communication is an essential part of patient care, and one of the key factors in the prevention of claims and complaints.

  • MDU article on the BBC News website - 9 July 2010

    Most people will expect GPs to raise concerns about a patient with access to guns or co-operate with the police if they ask for medical information about a gun owner but doctors’ duty of confidentiality means that is not always straightforward.

  • MDU Journal April 2006 - 5 April 2007

    Celebrating 120 years of the MDU, new GMC guidance on management and child protection advice. This is a pdf version of the MDU Journal April 2006.

  • MDU Journal December 2006 - 19 December 2007

    Major changes planned for healthcare regulation, highlights of the new GMC prescribing advice and advice for members involved in the conduct of clinical trials. This is a pdf version of the MDU journal December 2006.

  • MDU Journal December 2007 - 19 December 2007

    Treating under 18s, handling violent patients, confidentiality and reducing risk in ophthalmology.

  • MDU Journal January 2009 - 29 January 2009

    Expert witnesses under cross-examination, keeping patient information secure, patient consent and a closer look at avoiding claims in gynaecology.

  • MDU Journal June 2007 - 1 June 2007

    Out-of-hours complaints in primary care, missed malignancies in general practice and a reminder that the Mental Capacity Act comes into force.

  • MDU Journal June 2008 - 27 June 2008

    Controlled drugs, the new Corporate Manslaughter Act and reducing suicide risk in depressed patients - it's all in this pdf version of our journal.

  • MDU Journal June 2010 - 28 May 2010

    This is the June 2010 edition of the MDU journal. This special 125th anniversary issue includes a review of bariatric surgery claims and looks at some of the risk surrounding shared care.

  • MDU Journal May 2005 - 30 May 2007

    NHS computerisation, Monitoring quality and maintaining confidentiality and Sharing patient's records. This is a pdf version of the MDU Journal May 2005

  • MDU Journal November 2009 - 30 November 2009

    In this issue of the MDU Journal, we look at the hidden dangers of social networking, prosecuting cases of assisted suicide, analysing anaesthetic claims and recap on the MDU Coventry roadshow.

  • MDU Medico–Legal Seminar Coventry - 23 February 2010

    The MDU Medico-Legal Seminar gave members the opportunity to meet MDU medico-legal advisers and take part in interactive workshops. Watch as Dr Chris Evans, MDU President and Chairman, and Dr Christine Tomkins, MDU Chief Executive, speak at the event.

  • MDU membership for paramedics - 28 March 2007

    For the first time, paramedics can now have access to the same support that doctors have relied on for over 120 years.

  • MDU student e-journal June 2003 - 1 June 2003

    An elective in Micronesia, ethics in practice and what to do if you suspect drugs are affecting someones clinical performance. It's all in this pdf version of the June 2003 student e-journal.

  • MDU student e-journal March 2003 - 9 March 2003

    An elective in A & E, tips on planning your elective and managing your money as a student. It's all covered in this pdf version of the March 2003 student e-journal.

  • MDU student e-journal November 2003 - 1 November 2003

    Choosing the right revision course, communication skills and an elective in Australia. It's all in this pdf version of the MDU student e-journal.

  • MDU supports Welsh compensation scheme - 1 December 2008

    The NHS Redress Act 2006, which has yet to come into force, outlined a faster, less "legalistic" system for investigating potential claims and compensating patients harmed by negligence in NHS hospitals. Earlier this year the Welsh Assembly published its own proposals to introduce the scheme in Wales.

  • Medical professionalism - 14 December 2005

    A working party of the Royal College of Physicians has suggested that doctors need to rethink their professional image in order to maintain the trust of patients who are demanding a greater say in their healthcare.

  • Medico–legal pitfalls in depression - 1 June 2008

    Depression is generally successfully diagnosed and managed by a patient’s GP. However, on rare occasions problems may occur, including a number of tragic cases where a GP may not have fully appreciated the risk of suicide.

  • Medico-legal Update April 2004 - 1 April 2004

    This is a pdf version of Medico-legal Update - our regular email newsletter. In this issue: Medico-legal implications of picture messaging, Treating a child against a parents wishes and Completing cremation certificates.

  • Medico-legal Update December 2003 - 1 December 2004

    This is a pdf version of Medico-Legal Update - our regular email newsletter. In this issue: Generic drugs name change, Violent patients and the new GP contract and Prescribing - your questions answered.

  • Medico-legal Update January 2006 - 13 January 2006

    Welcome to the January 2006 edition of Medico-legal Update, designed to keep you up to date with the latest medico-legal issues.

  • Medico-legal Update July 2005 - 1 June 2005

    Welcome to this latest edition of Medico-legal Update, designed to keep you up to date with the latest medico-legal issues.

  • Medico-legal Update June 2004 - 1 June 2004

    This is a pdf version of Medico-legal Update - our regular e-mail newsletter. In this Issue: False or misleading sick notes, Gillick competence challenged and legal implications of new GP contract.

  • Medico-legal Update May 2005 - 1 May 2005

    Welcome to the May edition of Medico-legal Update, designed to keep you up to date with the latest medico-legal issues.

  • Medico-legal Update November 2004 - 1 November 2005

    Welcome to the November edition of Medico-legal Update, designed to keep you up to date with the latest medico-legal issues.

  • Medico-legal Update October 2005 - 1 October 2005

    Welcome to the October edition of Medico-legal Update, designed to keep you up to date with the latest medico-legal issues.

  • Medico-legal Update September 2004 - 1 September 2004

    This is a pdf version of Medico-legal Update - our regular email newsletter. In this issue: Guidelines on contraception, Changes to the complaints procedure and Doctor's signatures.

  • More CHARM from the MDU with its new membership system - 8 March 2004

    At the MDU, we value our heritage as the world's first medical defence organisation, but also believe in looking to the future. This is no better reflected than in our investment in Information Technology, the most recent of which is our new membership system.

  • Self assessment risk management booklet now available - 23 December 2003

    The DDU has recently launched a second risk management module to help dentists and their teams identify hazards and examine areas of potential concern that relate to records, consent and confidentiality.

  • The Dentistry Awards 2009 - 14 August 2009

    The DDU is delighted to be supporting the Dentistry Awards 2009 and we would like to encourage young dentists to enter the Best Young Dentist category

  • Travelling abroad as a group doctor - 30 June 2008

    Our medico-legal advisers were all practising healthcare professionals before joining the MDU, and many have found themselves in emergency situations where they have been required to perform a Good Samaritan act. They share some of their experiences in this article. Some of the details have been altered to disguise the identities of the patients.

  • Ward Round Journal April 2010 - 12 April 2010

    This issue of Ward Round looks closely at the theme of patient confidentiality and considers when a breach may be justified in the public interest.

  • Ward Round Journal November 2009 - 5 November 2009

    This issue of Ward Round discusses the role of chaperones in clinical practice and how to ace your CT/ST interview.

Media Releases

  • 12,000 GPs opt for guide to revalidation - 10 April 2002

    The MDU has been inundated with over 12,000 requests from its GP members for a new guide to help them meet the GMC's clinical governance and revalidation requirements next year.

  • 24-hour service legally safeguards Trusts - 31 October 2001

    Violent patients, consent and confidentiality and end of life issues are some of the common problems faced by NHS staff and for the first time trust managers will have access to round-the-clock telephone advice from medico-legal experts.

  • Advice for the newly initiated - 3 March 2003

    How do you tell a patient you have extracted the wrong tooth? What do you do when a patient has ingested an endodontic item? Today the DDU issues risk management strategies to help members reduce the risk of harm to patients through adverse incidents in their latest e-journal for members.

  • Alder Hey inquiry triggers consent concerns - 27 November 2001

    Recent cases at Alder Hey have sparked concerns about the removal of tissue and organs for doctors and it is unlikely these issues will become simpler in the future, author of new MDU booklet titled Consent said today.

  • Ban on - 1 November 2002

    New government guidelines for dealing with violent patients are long overdue and will provide much needed safeguards for doctors and nurses in the UK, the nation's biggest medical defence union said today.

  • Be aware of research risks advises MDU - 12 May 2010

    The Medical Defence Union (MDU) is reminding doctors involved in conducting clinical research to ensure patients fully understand the risks and benefits of taking part and to be aware of their legal and ethical responsibilities.

  • Beware of wrong tooth extraction warns DDU - 4 October 2004

    The DDU, the specialist dental division of the MDU, is warning dentists about the dangers of extracting the wrong tooth following new research which reveals that the error is more common than many dentists may realise.

  • Bruising results from MDU violence survey - 5 June 2001

    Security guards are needed to patrol A&E departments and GPs should carry personal attack alarms according to a nationwide survey of doctors out today.

  • Chance for dental students to win £1000 towards elective - 15 December 2004

    The Dental Defence Union, the specialist dental division of the MDU, has launched this year’s elective competition for dental student members with a first prize of £1000 and a second prize of £500 towards the cost of a dental elective.

  • Charges for access to health records - 4 October 2001

    The Lord Chancellor's Department has announced that the fees charged by the NHS for providing patients with copies of their medical and health records are to continue at the current levels for the time being.

  • Common complaints myths busted by DDU - 19 December 2007

    The Dental Defence Union (DDU) is helping to dispel some of the common myths surrounding patient complaints in its latest Journal for members which is published today.

  • Communication key to avoiding out-of-hours complaints - 11 June 2007

    An analysis of complaints and claims from out-of-hours care in general practice, published in the latest edition of the MDU Journal, reveals that communication difficulties are usually involved in cases notified by GPs.

  • Complaints about GP out of hours care increase - 15 September 2003

    Complaints about treatment provided by GPs outside normal working hours have risen significantly over the past seven years, according to new figures published by the MDU today.

  • Confidentiality concerns addressed by new MDU guide - 12 April 2006

    The MDU has advised doctors to inform patients that it may not be possible to transmit their data securely through electronic media, in its updated guide to confidentiality, available free to MDU members from today.

  • Coping with violence in the surgery - 31 January 2001

    The issue of violence against doctors was highlighted this week by a recent study (Health Service Report, issue 29, Industrial Relations Service) which drew attention to a disturbing rise in violent incidents against NHS staff.

  • Corporate manslaughter act - 26 July 2007

    As the Corporate Manslaughter Act obtains Royal Assent today, the Medical Defence Union (MDU), which advises members on criminal matters which might arise from their clinical duties, warned that hospital doctors may face more investigations into their conduct when the law comes into effect on 6 April 2008 (except deaths in custody).

  • DDU adds to team of dental claims experts - 4 June 2007

    The Dental Defence Union (DDU), the specialist dental division of the MDU, has further enhanced its team of highly experienced dento-legal advisers, claims handlers, and solicitors.

  • DDU advises dental professionals who act as expert witnesses - 16 September 2008

    The Dental Defence Union (DDU), the specialist dental division of the Medical Defence Union (MDU), today issued advice to dentists and DCPs who write expert reports or give evidence in court or at hearings to help them avoid some of the most common pitfalls.

  • DDU advises dentists and dental nurses on indemnity - 12 May 2008

    The Dental Defence Union (DDU) is offering professional indemnity advice to dentists and their dental nurses ahead of the start of compulsory General Dental Council (GDC) registration for dental care practitioners on 31 July 2008.

  • DDU advises dentists on the perils of pulling teeth - 22 April 2009

    The DDU, the specialist dental division of the MDU, says that removal of teeth in general dental practice is becoming an increasingly challenging area and has today issued advice to dentists to help them avoid the pitfalls.

  • DDU advises members about dental regulations - 14 March 2002

    The DDU is advising members on what events in their past they need to declare to their Health Authority. Dentists who fail to make a declaration by 31 March 2002, could risk being removed from the Health Authority dental list.

  • DDU advises members about risk management - 18 April 2002

    Dentists are being encouraged to focus on managing risk by the DDU. In a series of articles published in the Journal of the Dental Defence Union, dentists are getting advice on identifying and avoiding risks in areas such as restorative dentistry and in the day to day running of their dental practice.

  • DDU announces educational awards finalists for 2008 - 24 October 2008

    Some of the best practitioners in dental education will battle it out for the coveted title of teacher of the year in the 2008 DDU Educational awards in London on Wednesday 19 November.

  • DDU announces new dates for CPD courses - 1 December 2008

    The Dental Defence Union (DDU), the specialist dental division of the MDU, has again joined forces with experts from Kings College London to offer two further courses for all members of the dental team, which will be worth 12 hours of verifiable Continuing Professional Development (CPD).

  • DDU Educational Awards - finalists revealed - 10 October 2007

    The Dental Defence Union (DDU) today announces the names of the outstanding teachers and trainers who have reached the final of the 2007 DDU Educational Awards.

  • DDU educational awards - winners announced - 14 November 2007

    Some of the UK's best dental teachers were in London to compete for the Dental Defence Union's (DDU) fifth annual Educational Awards. Two finalists in each category battled it out to demonstrate how they had made a positive educational impact on their students or Vocational Dental Practitioners (VDP).

  • DDU further expands its team of dento-legal advisers - 28 February 2008

    The DDU has appointed a new dento-legal adviser to further strengthen its expert team. Alison Large will help the DDU's existing team respond to the increasing number of calls and requests for assistance from DDU members.

  • DDU helps dental students face finals with confidence - 11 November 2009

    Final exams are usually the most stressful time at dental school but the DDU has teamed up with experts, FinalBDS, to help students maximise their performance with a weekend undergraduate dental revision course – the only one of its kind in the UK.

  • DDU helps members respond to more patient complaints - 9 September 2009

    The Dental Defence Union (DDU), the specialist dental division of the MDU, is helping dental professionals with an increasing number of patient complaints following changes to complaints procedures in both the NHS and independent sectors.

  • DDU introduces insurance for cosmetic procedures - 30 April 2008

    The DDU, is pleased to be able to introduce indemnity insurance for dentist members who want to administer botulinum toxin and non-permanent resorbable dermal fillers to patients' lips or face, but excluding the neck.

  • DDU issues advice for dentists in mouth cancer awareness week - 18 October 2005

    The Dental Dental Union (DDU), specialist dental division of the MDU, has issued advice for dentists to help them avoid delay in obtaining specialist treatment for patients who may show the early signs of mouth cancer. The advice is timed to coincide with this year's Mouth Cancer Awareness Week, which takes place 13-19 November 2005.

  • DDU launches interactive assessment - 27 April 2005

    The DDU has launched an online service for members to help them identify potential risks within their own practice. The interactive risk assessment is aimed at helping practices address risks, in order to improve patient care and satisfaction and thereby reduce the potential for complaints and claims.

  • DDU launches new series of advice booklets for dentists - 11 November 2004

    The Dental Defence Union, the specialist dental division of the MDU, has produced a series of nine dento-legal briefings to advise dentists about the areas which are a common cause of concern in dental practice, including confidentiality, consent, patient records, complaints and claims.

  • DDU plugs indemnity gap - 23 September 2009

    The DDU is advising the increasing number of dental professionals who are organising themselves into companies to bid for contracts from PCTs and other bodies, to ensure their company has adequate indemnity in place.

  • DDU provides vocational training ideas for students - 3 April 2003

    Vocational training is put under the microscope in the latest issue of the DDU student journal, emailed to students, with ideas on planning, applying, and preparing for vocational training.

  • DDU searches for inspiring dental teachers - 14 May 2009

    The Dental Defence Union (DDU), the specialist dental division of the MDU, has begun its annual search for dental educators with the talent to motivate and encourage tomorrow’s dental professionals.

  • DDU seeks nominations for 2008 educational awards - 7 April 2008

    The DDU, the specialist dental division of the MDU, has started its search for the most outstanding and inspirational dental teachers of 2008. Students and vocational dental practitioners (VDPs) have until 1 September to nominate the teachers or trainers they think deserve to win one of the DDU's prestigious Educational Awards.

  • DDU seeks outstanding dental teachers - 3 May 2007

    The Dental Defence Union (DDU), the specialist dental division of the MDU, has opened nominations for its annual Educational Awards, now in its fifth year. Students and vocational dental practitioners (VDPs) have until Tuesday 31 July to nominate the teachers whose approach most motivates and inspires them.

  • DDU sees rise in specialist dento-legal lawyers - 15 January 2001

    Along with the spiralling growth of compensation culture in the UK, the DDU is seeing a notable rise in the number of specialist clinical negligence law firms setting up departments solely to pursue dento-legal work on behalf of patients and their relatives.

  • DDU supports DTI action plan for private dentistry - 23 June 2003

    The DDU welcomed today’s commitment by the DTI to ensure patients treated privately by dentists have access to an independent complaints procedure - something which the DDU believes can help avoid unnecessary litigation.

  • DDU urges dentists to review fee protocols - 2 November 2001

    The DDU is urging members to review their fee procedures following this week's announcement by the Office of Fair Trading it may launch an official investigation into private dentistry in the UK.

  • Dealing with amorous patients - 9 February 2006

    Most patients appreciate the parameters of the professional relationship that exists with their dental practitioner. However, on rare occasions a patient can misinterpret this as something more and this can lead to problems.

  • Dental team members vulnerable without their own defence - 30 August 2006

    The Dental Defence Union (DDU) is reminding dental nurses and dental technicians that they could register with the General Dental Council (GDC) from 31 July 2006 and that they must be registered by 31 July 2008 in order to work legally.

  • Doctors advised to avoid acronyms - 20 August 2003

    The MDU, which provides over half of UK doctors with ethical and legal advice, has welcomed recent research reported as showing that the historical practice of some doctors annotating patient notes with insulting or demeaning acronyms is dying out.

  • Doctors advised to review safety procedures - 19 November 2001

    The nation's largest medical defence body is today advising doctors to review their safety procedures in the wake of increasing notifications of assaults on its members.

  • Doctors and dentists without insurance at risk - 10 July 2003

    The MDU is calling for regulation of the medical and dental indemnity market to prevent doctors and dentists risking their finances and patients going uncompensated in the event of an indemnity provider using its discretion not to assist with a negligence claim.

  • Doctors ask for clarification over confidentiality regulations - 10 July 2002

    The UK's largest medical defence body is reassuring its members that it is business as usual with regard to handling confidential patient information following a number of enquiries from doctors about the impact of new government regulations.

  • Doctors face increasing media scrutiny - 12 January 2004

    Doctors are increasingly being approached by journalists for their reaction to patients' allegations about treatment, or for further information about patients' care, the Medical Defence Union revealed today.

  • Doctors flock to take up indemnity insurance - 23 August 2004

    Figures released by the Medical Defence Union today reveal that since the launch of its insurance policy for clinical negligence claims in 2000, UK medical membership has increased by over 20 per cent.

  • Doctors must not be deterred from reporting child abuse - 31 July 2003

    Today's Court of Appeal judgment, which is reported as finding that children who are wrongly diagnosed as suffering from child abuse can sue doctors, although their parents cannot, must not deter doctors from reporting suspected child abuse, said the MDU.

  • Doctors need insurance for new mental capacity assesments warn MDU - 11 November 2008

    Doctors who assess the mental capacity of mental health patients must have insurance against any liabilities that may arise, under new legislation which has just come into force. The MDU, says the regulations mean that doctors who are reliant on discretionary indemnity will not be eligible to carry out these assessments.

  • Doctors propositioned by Facebook flirts - 1 December 2009

    Doctors are being warned not to respond to amorous approaches from patients on social networking sites like Facebook, by the Medical Defence Union (MDU) today.

  • Doctors reminded to apologise for mistakes - 8 June 2005

    The Medical Defence Union, the UK's largest provider of indemnity and medico-legal advice to doctors, today reminded them of the importance of apologising to patients and providing a full explanation of the facts when a mistake has been made.

  • Doctors to the rescue ... again and again - 2 July 2008

    Asthma attacks, heart attacks, fainting, broken bones and car accident injuries are just some of the problems which have confronted doctors who have stepped in to help a member of the public outside while off-duty according to a survey of Medical Defence Union (MDU) members.

  • Doctors warned: Clean up your confidentiality clauses - 10 April 2001

    All practice staff including the cleaner should have a confidentiality clause written into their workplace agreement, medico-legal expert and author of a new booklet entitled "Confidentiality" warned today.

  • Doctors with drug and alcohol problems encouraged to seek help early - 13 June 2005

    The MDU, which provides medico-legal support and advice to over half of UK doctors, called today for doctors with drug and alcohol problems to seek help early, as a BBC study revealed that a number of doctors had been disciplined for alcohol and drug related incidents.

  • Doctors' 'end of life' concerns revealed by MDU - 20 May 2010

    Queries relating to advance decisions, ‘do not resuscitate’ decisions and Lasting Powers of Attorney are the most common reasons for doctors to seek advice from the Medical Defence Union (MDU) when providing care and treatment for patients at the end of their life.

  • Doctors' gifts unwrapped by MDU - 4 February 2008

    Legacies, artworks, vintage champagne, handmade embroidery and poems of thanks are just some of the ways that patients have shown their appreciation to their doctors over the last year, according to a new Medical Defence Union (MDU) survey of 511 doctors.

  • Doctors' increasing medico-legal needs met by MDU - 22 August 2006

    The Medical Defence Union (MDU) said today that doctors are facing increasing numbers of medico-legal challenges and it has seen a doubling in requests for assistance with General Medical Council (GMC) cases over the last few years.

  • Drug errors cost MDU £10.6milion - 19 December 2001

    Medication errors have cost the Medical Defence Union £10.6million over an eleven year period, it was announced today.

  • examdoctor has all the questions for MDU members - 1 July 2009

    Doctors and medical students who are facing examinations in the next few months can get extra help with their revision thanks to an online resource called examdoctor which is now available to MDU members with an exclusive discount of 33 per cent.

  • Experience counts at DDU Awards - 24 November 2008

    Six dental educators with over 150 years’ combined clinical experience left judges with a difficult decision at the sixth annual DDU Educational Awards.

  • Expert witness vital to civil justice says MDU - 5 April 2006

    Doctors should be encouraged to act as impartial expert witnesses in order to achieve a fair outcome for doctors and their patients in clinical negligence cases says the Medical Defence Union (MDU).

  • Failure to visit – a common cause for complaint - 15 October 2009

    GPs are being provided with advice on avoiding complaints about home visits, which are a frequent cause of complaints notified to the Medical Defence Union (MDU) by members. By far the commonest reason for such complaints is the GP’s alleged refusal to visit.

  • Finalists compete for 2009 DDU Educational Awards crown - 22 October 2009

    Some of the most talented and motivational educators in dentistry will battle it out for the titles of dentist, dental care professional (DCP) and vocational teacher of the year at the seventh annual DDU Educational Awards in London on Wednesday 18 November.

  • Fitness to practise concerns at medical school - 11 September 2007

    The Medical Defence Union (MDU) today warned medical students that adverse findings about their behaviour at medical school might prevent them from registering as a doctor with the GMC. The MDU reminded student members to contact its advisory helpline as soon as they become aware of an investigation into their fitness to practise.

  • Flu vaccinations for the worried well - 22 November 2005

    Following today's letter to GPs from the Department of Health about flu vaccination supplies, the Medical Defence Union (MDU), advised doctors to bear in mind authoritative guidance on the issue and to use their clinical judgement, when deciding whether to offer the flu vaccination to a patient not in an at risk group.

  • From Cambridge to Kangaroos - 20 June 2001

    The Medical Defence Union expanded today with the appointment of four new doctors from Cambridge, London, Scotland and Sydney to cope with the increasing demand for its services.

  • Further advice from DDU on tooth bleaching - 12 February 2007

    As uncertainty continues to surround the legal status of tooth bleaching, the Dental Defence Union today reiterated its commitment to members carrying out the procedure. In an article in the latest issue of the DDU Journal, the DDU updates members on the current position and responds to frequently asked questions about bleaching procedures.

  • GDC decisions will be re-examined, warns DDU - 26 August 2003

    The DDU, the specialist dental division of the MDU, is warning its members that some GDC fitness to practise decisions will be reviewed by a recently formed "super regulator" to determine if they are too lenient or shouldn’t have been made.

  • Get patients' consent to text, advises MDU - 12 March 2010

    GP practices that communicate with patients via text message are being advised, by the Medical Defence Union (MDU), to ensure patients have ‘opted in’ to the service.

  • GMC change to standard of proof almost Alice in Wonderland - 21 August 2007

    The Medical Defence Union, which indemnifies over half of UK doctors and assists hundreds each year with GMC fitness to practise investigations, says the GMC's proposed guidance on the use of the civil standard of proof would turn part of the decision-making process on its head.

  • GMC decisions will be re-examined, warns MDU - 18 August 2003

    The MDU is warning its members that some GMC fitness to practise decisions will be reviewed by a recently formed "super regulator" to determine if they are too lenient or shouldn’t have been made.

  • GMC proposals on hospital suspension not practical - 2 March 2001

    Doctors should not be obliged to inform patients or other organisations they work with if they are suspended by their employer, says the MDU today responding to a proposal in the GMC's draft revision of Good Medical Practice.

  • Good news on MDU Irish subs - 15 June 2001

    Many hospital doctors in Ireland will see no increase in their MDU subscriptions for the coming year and in some cases rates will go down by 30 per cent, it was announced today.

  • Government must address spiralling compensation says MDU - 21 March 2003

    Today's National Audit Office report, which showed the NHS's long term liability for settling clinical negligence claims has risen to £5.25 billion, is an indication that urgent action is needed to stem the rising tide of litigation, says the MDU.

  • GP paediatric claims cost £12.5 million - 20 May 2002

    The UK's largest medical defence organisation, paid out £12.5 million over ten years to compensate children negligently treated by GPs it was revealed today.

  • GPs advised to inform patients about use of automated appointments - 2 May 2006

    The Medical Defence Union is advising GPs who use automated appointment systems, which allow patients to log their arrival or be directed to a GP without seeing a receptionist, to inform patients of their use and offer alternatives to any patients who object or might have difficulty using them.

  • GPs face diagnostic difficulties over meningitis - 2 August 2010

    The Medical Defence Union is suggesting GPs review their procedures for managing patients with suspected meningitis as it revealed today it has paid out £22million to settle claims for delay in diagnosing the infection since 1998.

  • GPs free from passport paperwork - 16 October 2001

    As part of a series of moves to cut paperwork GPs will not be expected to sign passport or driving license applications civil servants have told the MDU.

  • GPs get - 24 April 2002

    The UK's largest medical defence organisation and the Royal College of General Practitioners (RCGP) today launched a comprehensive programme to help GPs demonstrate their continued fitness to practise.

  • GPs get free self-assessment guide - 13 August 2002

    GPs are being offered a free MDU guide to help them prepare for revalidation and appraisal. The MDU’s risk management self assessment pack "Risk Assessment for Revalidation: Module 1" will help MDU members chart a course through the jungle of information available on documenting fitness to practise.

  • GPs more flexibility in exercise referrals - 18 April 2001

    GPs now have greater flexibility in exercise referrals, with the GMC indicating to the MDU they would have no concerns if GPs refer patients to members of the Professional Register of Exercise and Fitness (PREF), leading medico-legal expert from the MDU said today.

  • GPs need to check references - 10 January 2002

    Changes to Terms of Services regulations means GPs will have to vet the references of locums or assistants.

  • GPs seek heatwave advice from MDU - 28 July 2006

    GPs have been asking the MDU for advice on to what extent they have to monitor vulnerable patients during the current heatwave.

  • GPs tackling risks get chance to win £3,000 - 2 September 2002

    How foolproof are your follow-up procedures? Does your practice have a new system for tracking referral letters and test results? Do you make sure you learn lessons from near misses? Do you have an up-to-date protocol for last-minute repeat prescription requests?

  • Healthcare commission complaints report - 1 February 2007

    Today’s Healthcare Commission report into NHS complaints echoes the Medical Defence Union’s (MDU’s) own research into complaints notified by its members.

  • Heightened risk of terrorism: MDU advises on doctors' role - 22 November 2002

    At a time of raised public concern about the potential threat of a terrorist attack, doctors should be aware of their obligations under new anti-terrorist legislation, advises Dr Matt Lee, a medico-legal adviser at the MDU.

  • HIV case raises confidentiality issue - 14 May 2003

    An Australian Supreme Court case, in which a woman whose husband infected her with HIV and hepatitis B is challenging GPs' right to maintain patient confidentiality, raises medico-legal issues for UK GPs, according to the MDU.

  • Identify patients who fear a trip to the dentist - 17 September 2003

    Dentists who identify patients who fear a "trip to the dentist" and respond to their special needs may also help to reduce complaints arising from their care, the DDU advises dentists this week in the latest e-journal.