Exclusive Interview with GDC Chair Prof Kevin O'Brien - Questions from members (1)
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- Published: Monday, 29 October 2012 14:21
- Written by Tony Jacobs
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Chas Lister asked:
Should the GDC, in the interests of patient protection and its own independence, challenge HMG, aka the DH, and therefore de facto the Member CDOs, as to why they organise NHS dentistry the way they do when any other country can so easily demonstrate that effective and good dentistry is so different?
This is not our role. The GDC has a very clear role and that is to regulate individual dentists and dental care professionals. Nevertheless, we do contribute to consultations that influence the regulation of dentistry. We do not have role in the delivery of services.
Pyandath George asked:
Should they not have more clinical members to the ratio of lay members?
There is no need to have more clinical members than lay members. It is important to point out that the members of the Council are not representatives. The present Council was appointed to ensure that we have a balance of skills, for example, legal and financial experience within the Council members. This ensures that the Council can hold the Executive to account and ensure that their work is effectively scrutinised, planned and executed.
When will they conclude the issue of “doctor” title for dentists?
Under my leadership the Council has set priorities that are relevant to risk. As a result, the issue of titles was not felt to be an immediate priority. Resources are currently being utilised on greater priorities. The GDC’s Ethical Advertising guidance – which came into force in March – sets out our expectations about using titles and qualifications:
Andy Bates asked a couple of questions too:
Why is it so difficult for the GDC to prosecute NON-registrants such as illegal tooth whiteners?
 | We consider each complaint individually. It is important to note that we do not have powers of investigation. We gather evidence of the offence taking place; visiting witnesses, taking statements and carrying out site visits prior to making a decision regarding whether or not to prosecute. The case then goes through the Magistrates Court. We have had a number of successful prosecutions and have plans for more. We also provide information to the public on tooth whitening and this can be downloaded from our website. We have had a number of successes and have plans for further prosecutions. We have a patient information leaflet which can be ordered free of charge from our website and can be downloaded here. |
And secondly:
How best can registrants help the GDC to bring such places [of illegal practice] to book? Just reporting it? Gathering evidence in some way? Who to lobby to make things easier for the GDC?
We have the greatest chance of success if we have willing patients who have suffered harm from illegal tooth whitening – if you have a patient willing to co-operate with the GDC, please get in touch.
What powers would he like to see the GDC being given to help in this area?
The greatest issue is to persuade the public not to use these illegal tooth whiteners and highlight the risks involved if they do. Removing demand is as important as removing supply.
Tim Coates asked:
Is the GDC's role to protect dental patients against mistreatment by dentists only or do they also have a role in protecting patients against negative outcomes as a direct result of DoH policies?
Following on, is the GDC aware of the BIG LIE and how is it protecting patients from it? [There were several questions on this one topic.]
The GDC has and will continue to respond to Government consultations linked to the regulation of healthcare workers – it does not have a view on Government policies about access to healthcare or contracts.
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