The 18-month suspension of Desmond D’Mello, the dentist involved in “the biggest recall in NHS history” could be extended by another few months if the High Court rules in favour of the extension by the General Dental Council (GDC). The suspension, which was imposed in August of 2014, is due to expire in February. Experts need more time to investigate after around 22 thousand patients were recalled, many to be tested for HIV and Hepatitis. A further 4526 patients were screened for blood-bourne viruses following D’Mello’s suspension from the Daybrook Dental Practice.
It has been alleged that Mr D’Mello had been failing to properly sterilise and decontaminate his dental instruments, and that he reused dirty disposable gloves.
18 months for investigations
Speaking for the GDC a representative confirmed that it is not at all unusual for extensions to interim orders to be sought. There is a statutory maximum duration of 18 months for investigations to be carried out, and often it is not possible to conclude investigations within that timeframe.
The spokesperson said: “The Interim Orders Committee (IOC) reviewed the suspension order on 21 December 2015 and considered that the suspension should continue on the basis of public interest and protection of patients. On that basis, the GDC is in the process of applying to the High Court for an extension to the order”.
A date for D’Mello’s hearing by the GDC has still to be set. Should he be found to have been in breach of standard practices, the most severe sanction available to the GDC would be a ban on practising dentistry in the UK for five years.
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