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.

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

Rise in calls to MPS from practitioners concerned about CQC inspections

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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 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.