Dentist Alan Fitzpatrick was suspended for four mo

Dentist Alan Fitzpatrick was suspended for four months today (FRI) after being found guilty of serious professional misconduct.

The General Dental Council found he made dishonest claims from the NHS for treatment before he moved to Australia in January 2000.

He also allowed inappropriate and misleading claims to be put forward under his name and tolerated ‘sub-standard’ administration at his surgeries, the hearing was told.

Committee Chairman Professor Ronald Laird said: ‘Although these offences took place over four years ago, the committee cannot but take a very serious view of these lapses.

‘Having regard to proportionality, in the light of both the seriousness of the findings of dishonesty and the evidence put forward on his behalf, the committee has concluded that no lesser determination than suspension would be sufficient.

‘The committee has therefore directed the Registrar to suspend the registration of Alan Fitzpatrick for a period of four months.

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Professor Laid said their purpose was not to punish the dentist but to protect the public and maintain confidence in the profession.

He added: ‘It is the duty of every dental practitioner practising within the NHS to make themselves aware of the regulations, and to maintain the highest standards of ethical and professional behaviour.

This Mr Fitzpatrick failed to do.

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ends