Physician associates: DAUK welcomes BMA support for legal challenge on regulation

Group of doctors in green scrubs holding the top of each others hands.
Jamie Bray
  • DAUK News
  • The NHS
2 minutes read

DAUK today welcomed the British Medical Association’s (BMA) decision to support a legal challenge over the regulation of physician associates (PAs) and anaesthesia associates (AAs).

The BMA has agreed to provide indemnity support for the case brought by Anaesthetists United (AU) and the Chesterton family against the General Medical Council (GMC).

The challenge is regarding the regulation of PAs and AAs, which the Doctors’ Association UK (DAUK) believes puts patient safety at risk.

DAUK has been an early and consistent supporter of this crucial legal action, and has contributed £30,000 to AU’s crowdfunding efforts.

We believe this case is vital for patient safety and the maintenance of high standards in UK healthcare.

Dr Matt Kneale, DAUK committee member, said: “We are pleased to see the BMA joining this important cause.

Physician associates

“DAUK recognised the significance of this issue early on, which is why we provided substantial financial backing.

“This legal challenge addresses critical concerns about patient safety and the appropriate regulation of physician associates and anaesthesia associates.

A spokesperson for Anaesthetists United said: “The BMA’s decision to support this case is generous, rare and highly significant.

“It does not typically fund legal actions brought by others; this move highlights the enormous gravity of the situation. We are deeply grateful for their help and recognition of how vital this is to healthcare in the UK.”

Now DAUK has renewed its call for healthcare professionals to support this legal action.

We are also urging royal colleges and other medical organisations to join us and the BMA in backing this case, which has far-reaching implications for the future of healthcare delivery in the UK.

For more information on how to support the legal challenge, please visit the Anaesthetists United website.

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