SEIZURE of more than 100 counterfeit and non-compliant items of dental equipment has landed a dentist in front of a GDC fitness to practise panel.
An investigation by the Medicines and Healthcare products Regulatory Agency (MHRA) found that a Hounslow dentist had purchased and permitted the use of the illegal dental equipment at 14 dental practices.
The findings of this investigation were subsequently referred to the GDC and in a public hearing held on 18 January a Professional Conduct Committee (PCC) found the dentist’s fitness to practise impaired by reason of his misconduct.
The MHRA has been working with the British Dental Industry Association (BDIA) and the General Dental Council (GDC) to monitor the use of substandard, counterfeit and illegal medical equipment and to promote awareness of the dangers that they present to patients and operators.
Alastair Jeffrey, Head of Enforcement, MHRA said: "MHRA is responsible for protecting public health and we have seen a worrying trend in the number of websites offering to supply dentists with unregulated and potentially dangerous equipment. Dental patients are entitled to expect quality care, including the standard of the instruments and devices used by dental professionals.
"It is vital that dentists and dental staff buy equipment from bona fide suppliers and avoid unapproved or counterfeit devices. I urge all dental professionals to be cautious of seemingly cheap devices which may be unfit for purpose and potentially dangerous to patients and the staff that use them."
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.
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