The High Court has extended the suspension of Desmond D'Mello, the dentist at the centre of the largest patient recall in NHS history, by a further eight months. The extension, granted following an application by the General Dental Council (GDC), will keep Mr D'Mello suspended until 26 October 2016.
Mr D'Mello, who practised at the Daybrook Dental Practice in Nottingham, was originally suspended in August 2014 over hygiene concerns. His interim suspension had been due to expire on 26 February 2016. A date for his fitness to practise hearing has yet to be set but is expected to take place in the summer.
Approximately 22,000 patients were recalled, with 4,526 screened for blood-borne viruses such as HIV and hepatitis. Alleged failings include reusing dirty gloves and failing to decontaminate dental instruments.
Jonathan Green, director of fitness to practise at the GDC, confirmed the extension and noted that the most severe sanction available would be a five-year ban from practising dentistry in the UK.
