Doctor A

This is a fictional case study. The doctor was dependent on alcohol following long term heavy drinking, worsening after problems at home.

Doctor A was referred to the GMC after being convicted of drink driving.

She was referred to the GMC by the police and had a health assessment as part of the GMC’s investigation process. This revealed serious alcohol addiction issues.

Further investigation revealed that Doctor A had been having domestic problems which led to her increasing her alcohol intake.

During a difficult time for her personally, she drove when over the limit.

Dr A recognised that she had a problem and agreed to undertakings, which allowed her to continue working and which included a commitment to abstain completely from alcohol and comply with unannounced breath testing.

(A medical supervisor will routinely undertake tests during scheduled meetings but sometimes the GMC commissions a private agent to collect samples for analysis at short notice. If a doctor is working this may be conducted by Occupational Health.)

She was also required to provide proof of attendance at a support group (Alcoholics Anonymous will provide proof of attendance if asked).

After two years, her case was reviewed and it was found that she was fit to practise medicine again without restriction. The undertakings were removed and she returned to unrestricted practice.