The average GDP will experience two claims over a typical career. If it happens to you, having the right support can make the experience a lot less daunting.
As a Dental Protection member we can provide you with expertise and reassurance as we manage your case at every step.
This video will take you through how the claims process works and how we can be there for you.
Stage 1: Incident
It's vital you make us aware of an incident as soon as it occurs as we may be able to prevent it from escalating to a claim.
Remember that a claim can be brought up three years after an incident, sometimes even longer.
Step 2: Complaint made
This can be a verbal or written complaint. A claim can even come from a complaint that you thought was already resolved.
Stage 3: Request for records
This request is typically made by a solicitor but can also come from the patient themselves or a representative If you receive a request for patient records it usually signals an intention to investigate. Most never become claims but we work to try to prevent things escalating so it's important to notify us right away.
Stage 4: Disclosure of records
At this stage there are two possible outcomes: no further action or a letter of claim being sent.
Stage 5: Letter of claim
On receiving a claim letter you must contact us immediately so we can deal with it on your behalf. Time is of the essence as we have just 14 days to acknowledge receipt and up to four months to respond.
Once again, the more information you can provide the quicker we can respond
Stage 6: Our investigations
We get to work on your behalf. We're meticulous in investigating the claim, and if more time is needed we'll seek an extension
Stage 7: We prepare a letter of response
If required we seek expert opinion of the allegations made and prepare a letter of response that either defends the claim or makes a settlement off to the patient.
We ensure you are fully involved in this process and see any response prepared on your behalf before it is sent to the claimant's solicitor.
Out letter of response can lead to one of three outcomes...
1. Claim defended and closed
The claim against you ends.
2. Agree to settle the claim
The claim against you ends and we take care of the compensation and legal costs.
3. Claim defended and pursued
Even at this stage most claims can be resolved without court involvement.
However, if court proceedings are issued you must let us know immediately as there are strict deadlines involved. We are here to support you through this process and we never stop working to find a solution.
Practise with confidence
We know that being the subject of a claim can be distressing. That's why our expert team do everything they can to guide you through the process.
Our primary concern at every step is to secure the best possible outcome for you.
So you can get back to doing what you do best.
Contact our our advice team