Doctor C

This is a fictional case study: This doctor was cautioned for possession of Class B drugs and colleagues noticed he had been performing less well recently.

Doctor C was referred to the GMC after receiving a police caution for possession of class B drugs. During the GMC’s investigation it emerged that she occasionally took class B drugs in the evening, then attended work the next day. Colleagues had noticed deterioration in her performance.

A health assessment found she was suffering from depression. Because the case involved serious conduct issues (possession and use of an illegal drug) as well as health concerns, the case was referred to a fitness to practise hearing, where conditions were imposed on the doctor’s registration.  Fitness to practise hearings are held at the Medical Practitioners Tribunal Service (MPTS).  The MPTS is part of the GMC, but is operationally separate from the GMC’s investigation function.

Confidential information relating to the doctor’s health was removed from the published public minutes of the hearing.

The conditions imposed on Doctor C’s registration included a requirement to remain abstinent from illegal drugs, to comply with unannounced testing and to work under the supervision of a consultant/senior colleague. She was also required to attend a support group.

It was made clear that any breach of conditions, for example possession of prohibited drugs, may result in an immediate referral back to a fitness to practise hearing.

The medical supervisor took into account the views of the doctor and her family, her workplace reporter, GP and a representative from the support group she attended and was satisfied that she had complied fully with the conditions over a two year period.

Based on this information, he recommended to the review panel that the doctor was fit to return to unrestricted practice.