The Fitness to Practise (FtP) Directorate investigates allegations of impairment of fitness to practise made against nurses and midwives on grounds including misconduct, lack of competence and ill health.
The NMC can investigate a complaint even if it falls outside a registrant’s clinical conduct. For example, if a nurse received a police caution for shoplifting, although this does not impact on patient care, the NMC are likely to allege that this conduct has brought the profession into disrepute.
During the course of their investigations, the NMC may take witness statements, obtain medical records and/or seek specialist advice. Remember that whilst you must co-operate with the NMC, they are the prosecution in this matter and are looking to build a case against you. It is likely they will disclose their documentation to you and invite you to comment on the allegations against you. We can provide support and assistance in these circumstances and advise you how to respond.
MAS have experience of drafting submissions and advising medics how to structure comments and any admissions at this stage. Proper consideration of the issues can avoid a referral to a disciplinary committee.
