Responding to the General Dental Council's (GDC) recent proposal to conduct all practice committee and registration appeal committee hearings remotely by default, Rachael Bell, interim head of dental at MDDUS, said:
"Everyone has a right to a fair and public hearing and the GDC's proposal to default to remote hearings could potentially compromise this fairness.
“In cases with conflicting factual accounts, registrants should have the right to see their accuser face-to-face without providing justification for such a request.”
Rachael Bell added: "For many, a smartphone may be their only way to participate in remote hearings, which can severely limit registrants ability to engage fully in the process.
"The GDC's effort to manage resources must not come at the cost of fairness, particularly for those with learning difficulties, sensory impairments, disabilities or other challenges."
ENDS
The Medical and Dental Defence Union of Scotland (MDDUS) is a mutual organisation that protects the professional interests of more than 56,000 doctors and dentists across the United Kingdom, offering access to indemnity, support and legal advice.
For further information please contact Lisa Walker, communications manager, on lwalker@mddus.com or 07976 886552.
This page was correct at the time of publication. Any guidance is intended as general guidance for members only. If you are a member and need specific advice relating to your own circumstances, please contact one of our advisers.