Real member stories

These case studies, based on MDU members' real-life experiences, provide a valuable opportunity for shared learning across a wide range of specialties and situations, as well as illustrating how we can offer assistance to members when they need it most.

Case study

GMC interview

An SHO faced a dilemma when the GMC wanted to interview them about a colleague's alleged misconduct.
Case study

Botulinum toxin prescription

Can a GP prescribe botulinum toxin treatments on behalf of a healthcare assistant? One member called the MDU to find out...
Case study

Addressing an inaccurate complaint response

The MDU was able to assist a consultant who felt a trust's response to a complaint didn't accurately reflect the facts.
Case study

Best interests

An MDU member needed reassurance when an elderly patient's adult children disagreed about their mother's best interests.
Case study

Cause of death

A GP member was unsure how to proceed when what they believed to be an unexpected death was deemed natural by the coroner.
Case study

Consent for surgery

A surgeon needed to check that a patient's consent was still valid before performing an operation, and called the MDU for advice.
Case study

Coroner's statement after remote consultation

An unexpected call from the coroner led to an MDU consultant member calling for support with making a statement.
Case study

Disclosure to the police

The MDU helped out an emergency department consultant after the police asked for details of a patient they had just arrested.
Case study

Fit to fly?

A patient's refusal to declare their health issues before a potentially risky flight gave a GP member some confidentiality considerations...
Case study

Overseas treatment

A GP needed advice when a patient complained about not being prescribed medication while abroad.
Case study

Post-discharge prescription of naproxen

The MDU assisted a member when an error with a patient's prescription led to a complaint.

Case study

Record request from estranged father

A GP needed the MDU's guidance to process a request for patient records without disclosing confidential information.
Case study

Request for a hymenoplasty

A consultant gynaecologist called on the MDU for assistance after a consultation that raised significant safeguarding issues.
Case study

Request for contraception from patient under 16

A GP called the MDU for advice on how to proceed when a young patient asked for contraception.
Case study

Risk assessment for oxygen

The MDU advised a respiratory consultant who had concerns about a patient's use of oxygen at home.