Bereaved families join doctors’ legal case against GMC

Getty/PrathanChorruangsak

By Erin Dean

Two bereaved families have joined Anaesthetists United’s legal case against the General Medical Council over the plans to regulate physician and anaesthesia associates, the doctors’ campaign group has said.

Both families have had a relative die after being cared for by a physician associate (PA) - and includes the parents of Emily Chesterton.

The 30-year-old actress died from a pulmonary embolism after being misdiagnosed on two occasions by a PA while visiting her local general practice in Crouch End, North London.

AU is planning a legal challenge against the GMC, which is due to start regulating the roles in December.

The group argues patient safety is being compromised because of a lack of clarity over the associate role, and claimed the GMC should set national standards to change this but has not.

“These families have chosen to stand with us,” a spokesperson for AU said. 

“This is a significant development and underscores the gravity of the case. We extend our deepest sympathy to them for their loss, and we are grateful for their courage and bravery in stepping forwards. It is critical that everyone understands just what inadequate standards, supervision and lack of regulation can lead to.”