Making ourselves heard

It needs to be borne in mind that the GDC can only carry out its role as governing body of the profession with the assent and co-operation of the profession in general - the vast majority of whom are GDPs.

Many practitioners have contacted me to say they are very concerned about the impact a decision to implement a ban would have on the status of the profession, as they try to explain to their patients why they should no longer be called Doctor. The other important point that has been raised repeatedly is the cost to the profession should they feel the need to change practice stationery, signage, web-sites etc. - at a time when they are having to cope with the additional financial burden of CQC registration and implementation of HTM01-05.

The overwhelming response I have received is that dentists have no intention of ceasing to use the title 'Dr.' Consequently the GDC is in danger of inflicting immense damage on itself, over an issue which is entirely of its own making, if it votes to implement a ban it will be unable to enforce.

I would suggest we write or e-mail the GDC so they are made aware of the strength of feeling in the profession on this issue and so they are in no doubt as to the potential consequences to the credibility of the Council, should they put themselves in a position so out of step with the profession at large.