Nearly a quarter of UK doctors found guilty of sexual misconduct have been handed suspensions rather than being struck off, according to an analysis by the Royal College of Surgeons (RCS). The study examined 222 new tribunal cases between August 2023 and August 2024, identifying 46 proven cases of sexual misconduct. In 11 of these cases, the Medical Practitioners Tribunal Service (MPTS) suspended the doctor instead of erasing them from the medical register, as recommended by the General Medical Council (GMC).
All perpetrators were male, with over 80% holding positions of authority. Several cases involved multiple targets, indicating repeated and systemic abuse. The RCS expressed concern that allowing offenders back into practice undermines public confidence in the medical profession.
In one high-profile case, an acute medical consultant found guilty of rape received only a 12-month suspension, with the tribunal panel describing it as a 'one-off event'. Another doctor who groomed a patient from the age of 14 was also suspended for 12 months, with the panel citing 'insight, remediation and remorse'.
The GMC said it takes a zero-tolerance approach and appeals when sanctions are too lenient, with a significant proportion of appeals resulting in stronger sanctions. The MPTS stated it recognises the impact of its decisions and will publish new guidance on 30 September.
The Department of Health and Social Care said sexual abuse in healthcare settings is completely unacceptable and that the government expects employers and regulators to take appropriate action against perpetrators.
