As we emerge from the initial peak of the COVID-19 pandemic, there is a sense in general practice that while it has presented an exceptionally challenging situation, it has provided a unique opportunity to rethink how patient care is delivered. Recent reports from the...

It is over 100 days since the World Health Organization declared COVID-19 a pandemic on 11 March. Healthcare services have adapted fast and continue to adjust. With UK case numbers falling, lockdown restrictions are being progressively lifted. GPs and other healthcare...

As an indemnity provider created by GPs for GPs, we pay close attention to the state of the profession. We’re acutely aware of the current shortage of GPs and the need to protect and support the skilled professionals who work across the country. In this post, we look...

How long medical records should be kept is a regular question asked by doctors, and with good reason. It's a huge responsibility, and one that should be taken with great care, as record holders have a legal and ethical obligation to securely preserve records. When it...

GP primary care services are not included in overseas visitor charging regulations, but with increased publicity, debate and recent rule changes over NHS charging, confusion can arise. Whilst there may be charges for some overseas patients in secondary care, even...

As medical negligence or other claims may arise after you retire - or stop practising for some other reason - you need to ensure you are covered for the long term. Run-off insurance for GPs is a type of cover that specifically relates to historic claims from a time...

All of us as GPs will likely carry out at least some paid-for services, but expansion of or an outright switch to private delivery is, obviously, a wide-reaching decision. It’s one thing to provide HGV medicals and firearms reports that don’t conflict with NHS...

Patients will soon have the right to access their medical records through the NHS app – which is set to bring a renewed focus on what’s actually contained within a person’s file. If it’s easier than ever for patients to request, inspect and challenge the data kept on...

The nation is set to go to the polls on December 12 for a rare winter General Election that pundits are saying will be crucial for the future of the country. The Medical Defense Society is strictly neutral on political matters – we’re proud to represent GPs of any...

Whether you view it as a genuine motivator to improve standards and refine practice or an unnecessary burden, for now at least, revalidation appears to be here to stay. Finally implemented in 2012 after many years of being mooted, the system requires all licensed...

Failures in safeguarding vulnerable adults can and do result in tragedy and harm to individuals and professionals. It’s a tricky thing for GPs to get right - and vital to focus on. The case of Joseph O’Hanlon, an alcoholic who was beaten to death in his home after...

At MDS, we’re used to helping GPs to handle complaints and queries when things don’t go to plan. As GPs ourselves, we understand the challenges this job can throw up and we vow to step in with support where and when we can. Yet, we’re also keen to help GPs by...