MPS’s Christmas reminder of doctors’ obligations to report dangerous drivers
Time to read article: 2 mins
Close Preview
With the recent reduction in Scotland’s drink-driving limit and the festive season now in full swing, the Medical Protection Society (MPS) is reminding doctors of their professional obligations to disclose information regarding patients who jeopardise public safety by driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs
House of Commons hears MPS’s concerns that Medical Innovation Bill could increase uncertainty
Time to read article: 1 mins
Close Preview
At a House of Commons Adjournment debate yesterday, the Medical Protection Society’s (MPS) concerns that the Medical Innovation Bill is unnecessary and could increase uncertainty were raised.
As a doctor, you may be asked to give evidence in many different types of tribunals, including criminal or civil courts, the coroner’s court and employment or mental health tribunals. This factsheet gives further information about what to expect and how to prepare.
91% of doctors want more guidance on patient’s recording consultations, MPS survey reveals
Time to read article: 1 mins
Close Preview
An MPS survey of over 500 members has revealed that one in five (19%) doctors have experience of patients recording their consultations. Of those, 40% were not made aware at the time that the patient was recording the consultation.
The Medical Protection Society (MPS) opposes the GMC’s proposals to change its sanctions guidance and effectively dilute the discretion of Fitness to Practise Panels
If a patient dies and the death is reportable to the coroner, you should leave all equipment in place until you have discussed the case with the coroner’s officer. This factsheet gives you further information about what to do.
Removal of medical equipment after death - England
Time to read article: 2 mins
Close Preview
If a patient dies and the death is reportable to the coroner, you should leave all equipment in place until you have discussed the case with the coroner’s officer. This factsheet gives you further information about what to do.
Communicating with patients by fax and email - England
Time to read article: 3 mins
Close Preview
Electronic communication can provide a useful and alternative point of access for patients. However, you should ensure that, if sensitive information needs to be sent electronically, safeguards are in place to avoid breaching patient confidentiality. This factsheet sets out the potential risks of electronic communication.
Medical Innovation Bill a serious threat to doctor-patient relationship, says MPS
Time to read article: 1 mins
Close Preview
Ahead of the debate in the House of Lords on Friday 24 October, the Medical Protection Society (MPS) reiterates its opposition to the Medical Innovation Bill as it has the danger to inhibit responsible innovation, give false reassurance to doctors, and damage the doctor-patient relationship.
MPS survey: GMC investigations impact on the health of 72% of doctors
Time to read article: 2 mins
Close Preview
A Medical Protection Society (MPS) survey of 180 doctors investigated by the General Medical Council in the last five years found that almost three quarters (72%) believed the investigation had a detrimental impact on their mental and/or physical health.
MPS calls for safeguards on a new offence of wilful neglect on doctors
Time to read article: 1 mins
Close Preview
Ahead of the debate in the House of Lords on 20th October on a new offence of wilful neglect on doctors, the Medical Protection Society (MPS) continues to call for safeguards to prevent damaging consequences to the professional lives of doctors.
MPS notes Healthwatch England’s ‘Suffering in silence' report
Time to read article: 1 mins
Close Preview
Dr Nick Clements, Head of Medical Services at MPS says: “It is worrying that three out of five patients and care users that complain about their treatment feel that the system is failing to address their concerns. A culture of openness in the NHS is critical to improving the quality and safety of patients.
MPS encourages doctors to ensure patients understand online medical records
Time to read article: 1 mins
Close Preview
While the Medical Protection Society (MPS) welcomes the significant increase in the percentage of patients who can access their medical records online, it is concerned that simply providing patients with access is not enough. MPS is urging doctors to also provide patients with the support they need to understand and use information safely, appropriately and effectively.
MPS survey: Consent an issue for practices involved in seven day GP access trial
Time to read article: 2 mins
Close Preview
The Medical Protection Society (MPS) is encouraging GP practices participating in the government’s trial to provide seven day GP access and extended opening hours to be mindful of confidentiality if sharing medical records with other primary care services.
In this issue we bring you two interesting cases; the first encourages GPs to exercise caution when diagnosing haematuria, and the second highlights how various poor communication channels can have a negative impact on patient care.
The GMC states that “doctors play a crucial role in protecting children from abuse and neglect”. Child maltreatment includes neglect and physical, sexual and emotional abuse. The following frequently asked questions are designed to advise MPS members what to do and who to contact, should they suspect children are at risk of, or are experiencing, harm.
Doctors play a crucial role in protecting children from abuse and neglect. Surgery consultations, home visits, emergency department admissions and contact with other professionals who work with children help to build up a picture of a child’s situation. This factsheet is designed to help members know how to act and who to contact when they suspect children are at risk of or are experiencing harm.
Under the Misuse of Drugs Act (1971) and the Misuse of Drugs Regulations (2001), GPs have a responsibility for controlled drugs (CDs) within their practice. This factsheet highlights what you should be aware of when carrying, storing and recording controlled drugs.
MPS says the Medical Innovation Bill is unnecessary
Time to read article: 1 mins
Close Preview
In response to the recent Legislation to encourage Medical Innovation Dr Nick Clements, Head of Medical Services at MPS said, "The Bill is unnecessary. Current law already allows doctors acting responsibly to innovate without fear of clinical negligence claims, provided they have the support of a responsible body of peers and the patient’s informed consent. The Bill gives false reassurance to doctors over their legal position and could undermine clinical trials therefore disrupting medical research.
You'll notice a few things have changed on our website. After asking our members what they want in an online platform, we've made it easier to access our membership benefits and created a more personalised user experience.
Why not take our quick 60-second tour? We'll show you how it all works and it should only take a minute.