GMC interim orders panel hearings – Offering guidance and support
At Lexadeen Solicitors we have represented countless number of doctors in respect of both IOP and IOP review hearings. Our expert team made up of Solicitors, Barristers and medico-legal advisers has also been successful in challenging the conditions placed upon a doctor’s registration.
From the outset, we seek to advice a doctor on the most likely outcome of the hearing and the level of costs involved.
An interim orders panel hearing is convened in to consider whether a doctor’s registration should be restricted while allegations about their conduct are resolved.
You should be aware that the IOP has the power to suspend your registration or impose conditions upon your registration for a maximum period of 18 months. Furthermore interim orders panel review hearings are convened at regular six month intervals to review the order.
When considering whether to refer a case to an IOP, GMC Case Examiners, the GMC Investigation Committee or a fitness to practice panel, as appropriate, should take account of the following factors (as per GMC guidance):
- The seriousness of risk to members of the public if the practitioner was to continue to hold unrestricted registration. In assessing this risk the Interim orders panel will consider the seriousness of the allegations, the weight of the evidence, including evidence about the likelihood of further offences occurring whilst the allegations are resolved.
- Whether public confidence in the medical profession is likely to be seriously damaged if the practitioner were to continue to hold unrestricted registration whilst the allegations are resolved.
- Whether it is in the doctor’s interests to hold unrestricted registration. For example, the doctor may clearly lack insight and need to be protected from himself/herself.
The following factors may also be relevant;
- Whether the practitioner has complied with any undertaking given or conditions previously imposed in relation to this matter.
- The practitioner’s history with the GMC (if any).
Where referral to an IOP is appropriate it will be irrelevant whether or not the doctor has a licence to practice.
The types of cases that might be referred to an IOP include:
- Clinical issues
- Non-clinical issues e.g. indecent assault, health problems, criminal investigations. The point at which doctors who are the subject of criminal investigations should be referred to an IOP is flexible and will depend on all the circumstances of the case.
- Breach of conditions ad/or undertakings
It is important to remember that the conclusion of each case is determined on its own facts and doctors may well have Conditions (restrictions) imposed, or no Order at all imposed, where they attend and make submissions and present evidence of their suitability to continue to practise medicine, while the GMC investigation continues.
Should you require assistance and/or representation in respect of an Interim orders panel hearing contact our expert team………on 01204 565 006. See what we can do for you. Alternatively you can email us on enquiries@lexadeen.co.uk We have offices in Stoke-on-Trent, Bolton, Greater Manchester
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