No whitewash please

It was perhaps surprising that there were few mentions in the national press about the tragic suicide of a dentist in Leeds. This is particularly so, when the inquest heard reports that in the few days prior to his death the dentist felt harassed and bullied by ‘NHS chiefs’.

In previous issues I have been vocal with criticism of the British Dental Association, but on this occasion its response was absolutely right. The chair of GDPC wrote to Earl Howe, the Minister with responsibility for dentistry, asking him to conduct an independent inquiry into the events leading up to the tragedy, and seeking assurance that those responsible for dentistry within the new NHS structures make sure that when they investigate concerns the practice staff are given details of support that may be available.

For let’s not be under any illusions, the powers that the NHS has are considerable. It controls and manages performer lists, and removal from these lists means a practitioner cannot provide NHS care. For many, this will threaten practice viability and the livelihood of the dentist but this may only be the start of problems. I understand that primary care trust staff sometimes mentioned the possibility of GDC referral if full cooperation was not forthcoming. It’s hardly surprising then, that dentists who find themselves the subject of scrutiny by outside bodies such as PCTs, their successors or the CQC, find the stress almost intolerable. That is why the BDA is right to point out that when investigations are necessary, and they will be from time to time, that those under the microscope should be pointed in the direction of help, support and assistance. This might come from the indemnity providers, the Local Dental Committees, or the BDA, but it is important that support is made available.