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Supporting dentists through the clinical negligence process

Post date: 09/05/2019 | Time to read article: 2 mins

The information within this article was correct at the time of publishing. Last updated 08/07/2019

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

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