Professor John Elfed Davies · Prevention of Future Deaths report

On 14th June 2013 I commenced an investigation into the death of Professor John Elfed Davies, aged 71yrs. The investigation concluded at the end of the inquest on 31st October 2013.

The conclusions of the inquest were as follows:

Injury or disease causing death:
(I)A incised wounds to neck and multiple stab wounds to the chest.

How, when and where Professor Davies came by his death:

On Monday 10th June 2013, a 71 year old male was found deceased lying on the floor of his hotel room. He had self inflicted incised wounds to his neck and multiple stab wounds to his chest. A note was found in the room confirmed to be in his handwriting. His death was deemed non suspicious by police. He was concerned about his health, finances and a complaint that had been made about his practice to the GMC.

Conclusion of the coroner as to the death:

He took his own life.

A note found at the scene clearly indicated that the proceedings against him by the GMC were very much playing on his mind at the time he took his own life.

This is the second death of a doctor that has come before me over the last 2 years where a GMC investigation into the doctor’s practise has been found to play a part.

I am concerned that clinicians who are subject to such investigative processes are suffering adverse psychological effects which may be unrecognised and unsupported.

Consideration should be given to the language and tone of written communications, the provision of information about relevant support agencies, and the assessment and identification of suicidal or other self harming behaviour by the relevant body and the facilitation of appropriate on-ward referral.

It is for each organisation to which this report is addressed to consider any appropriate and specific actions for them to take.