The Health Committee
The Health Committee, a statutory committee of the Council, is one of three practice committees. The Health Committee considers cases where it appears that a dental professional’s fitness to practise is affected by a physical or mental condition.
After consideration of the allegations referred to it the Health Committee may:
- Conclude that the registrant’s fitness to practise is not impaired and close the case
- Issue a reprimand
- Impose conditions for up to 36 months (immediate conditions can be applied if required)
- Suspend the registrant for up to 12 months (with or without a review) (immediate suspension if required)
- erase the name of the registrant but not following a determination that his/her fitness to practise as adentist is impaired solely on the ground of adverse physical or mental health.
The Health Committee may refer the case back to the
Investigating Committee or to either of the other practice committees.
In the interests of public accountability, hearings before the Health Committee are generally open to the public. They may, however, be heard in private where the interests of the parties or the protection of the personal life of the respondent so requires, or if the committee considers that publicity would prejudice the interests of justice.
The rules governing the procedure of the Health Committee are the General Dental Council (Fitness to Practice) Rules Order of Council 2006.