The Medical Protection Society, or MPS, helps members with the legal problems that arise in their clinical practice. This includes such issues as:

Complaints

MPS provides support and advice to its members to assist in dealing with complaints. Whether a response requires conformation that a proposed course of action is the correct one, or a more detailed and complex course of action is required, MPS advises doctors to fully investigate complaints and to provide patients with a honest and comprehensive explaination and, where appropriate, provide a full apology. Contrary to popular belief this does not encourage patients to pursue a claim compensation.

Claims

The first hint of a claim is often when a request is made by a solicitor for a patient's medical records. Although this can be difficult situation to contend with, it is important to abide by the strict time constraints that a civil procedure involves. By contacting MPS with the details, we can then be able to advise you on how to approach the next steps.

Writing Reports

Doctors are required to produce a variety of reports for numerous purposes, such as insurance and employment purposes.. This frequently raises difficult queries, on such issues as consent, confidentiality and what information can be included. Making a call to MPS can help to clarify the issues and provide a way forward.

General Medical Council Inquiries

Members who are facing a complaint to the General Medical Council, (GMC), can apply for help to MPS in the usual way. MPS can provide support and advice, and, should the issue proceed as far, representation at any hearings.

Inquests and Fatal Accident Inquiries

During investigations into the death of a patient, it is understandable for doctors to feel vulnerable about their position. In such cases, you can turn to MPS for advice. We can offer support with appearances at coroner’s courts and fatal accident inquiries.

Disciplinary Inquiries

Disputes with your employer are uncommon but should an issue arise, MPS is there to help. Typically this would involve incidents where there is an allegation of poor clinical performance or unprofessional conduct. MPS are able to advise you on the best course of action in this situation.

Police Investigations

Although police investigations into the care a patient has received are rare, but they do happen. On occasions, doctors have been prosecuted for offences such as indecent assault or manslaughter. If these investigations arise as a result of your clinical practice then you can turn to MPS for assistance.

More about the Medical Protection Society