Amit GOEL

On 14 January 2022, whilst employed as a Specialty Doctor at Ysbyty Glan Clwyd Hospital, Dr Goel behaved inappropriately towards his junior colleague, Student Nurse A, in that he put his arm around Student Nurse A’s waist and kissed Student Nurse A on her cheek and that such actions were without Student A’s consent and were an abuse of his more senior position. This behaviour does not meet with the standards required of a doctor. It risks bringing the profession into disrepute and it must not be repeated. The required standards are set out in Good Medical Practice (2013) (‘GMP’) and associated guidance. Paragraphs 36 and 37 of the version of GMP which applied at the time are particularly relevant: “36 You must treat colleagues fairly and with respect. 37 You must be aware of how your behaviour may influence others within and outside the team.” Domain 3 ‘Colleagues, Culture and Safety’ of GMP (2024), ‘Introduction’ and paragraphs 48-49 and 52-55 are also relevant:

“Domain 3: Colleagues, culture and safety Introduction Culture is determined by the shared values and behaviours of a group of people. Everyone has the right to work and train in an environment which is fair, free from discrimination, and where they’re respected and valued as an individual. Good medical professionals communicate clearly and work effectively with colleagues in the interests of patients. They develop their self-awareness, manage their impact on others, and do what they can to help create civil and compassionate cultures where all staff can ask questions, talk about errors and raise concerns safely. 48 You must treat colleagues with kindness, courtesy and respect. 49 To develop and maintain effective teamworking and interpersonal relationships you must: a listen to colleagues b communicate clearly, politely and considerately c recognise and show respect for colleagues’ skills and contributions d work collaboratively with colleagues and be willing to lead or follow as the as the circumstances require. 52 You must help to create a culture that is respectful, fair, supportive, and compassionate by role modelling behaviours consistent with these values. 53 You should be aware of how your behaviour may influence others within and outside the team. 54 You should be aware of the risk of bias, and consider how your own life experience, culture and beliefs influence your interactions with others, and may impact on your decisions and actions. 55 You must show respect for, and sensitivity towards, others’ life experience, cultures and beliefs.” Whilst this failing in itself is not so serious as to require any restriction on his registration, it is necessary in response to issue this formal warning. This warning will be published on the medical register in line with the GMC’s publication and disclosure policy, which can be found at www.gmc-uk.org/disclosurepolicy.