GMC suspends Cumbrian GP who belittled colleagues

A family GP from Cumbria who belittled colleagues over four years has been suspended for six months.

Dr Henry Hart, 45, frequently shouted at staff at Bayside Family Practice in Ulverston, between 2004 and 2008, when he quit his post.

A General Medical Council (GMC) disciplinary panel found his behaviour was "rude, aggressive, unhelpful and unprofessional".

Dr Hart was cleared of claims the he swore at staff and ignored patients.

The hearing in Manchester was told the GP frequently undermined colleagues, at one point denying computer access to them so they could not check medical records or make appointments.

He even tried to dictate to staff with whom they should have social contact, the fitness panel was told.

'Overworked and ill-equipped'

The panel concluded Dr Hart may have "deep-seated attitudinal problems" and needed time to address his behaviour issues.

However, it accepted that he was probably overworked and ill-equipped to act as a manager.

A practice manager, receptionist, fellow GP, administrator and a practice nurse - all women - made complaints against Dr Hart's aggressive behaviour.

Many patients who left the 4,000-patient practice during his stay had complained to nurses and receptionists, the hearing was told.

He was said to have failed to work with colleagues in a way which served the best interests of patients and did not treat colleagues with respect.

Dr Hart had denied his fitness to practise was impaired because of his misconduct.