In the latest edition of the DDU journal, the member describes how they felt when they received a letter from the patient's lawyers, and the practical support and advice provided by the DDU.
The member said:
"I was shocked, but I also felt some embarrassment and shame that I was being sued by a patient. This was a first for me.
"I knew nothing about what to do about the lawyer's letter other than to contact the DDU, so I phoned them immediately. They were great, guiding me through the process of responding to the letter and what information they needed.
"My whole DDU team were incredible from start to finish. They helped me at every stage and were encouraging when I felt disheartened and discouraged that this was happening to me. They were so thorough and every one of them was outstanding. If you are ever in the same boat as me, they'll get you through it safely!"
The DDU is committed to guiding, supporting and defending members, and as such defends claims wherever possible on their behalf. Leo Briggs, deputy head of the DDU, explained:
"Despite the positive outcome for our member, it cannot be overlooked that this was a long process that took many years to reach a conclusion, which was undoubtedly stressful for the member.
"At the DDU, we guide, support and defend members, and as part of that we act in their best interests and safeguard their professional reputations. We put our members at the heart of decisions about how their case is managed."
Read the member's account in the latest issue of the DDU journal.
This page was correct at publication on 03/09/2024. Any guidance is intended as general guidance for members only. If you are a member and need specific advice relating to your own circumstances, please contact one of our advisers.