When you need support, we’re by your side

You can count on our expert guidance, personal support and robust defence of your professional reputation if your clinical competence or care of patients is questioned.

Don’t rely on NHS indemnity alone or you could find yourself without support for GMC investigations, disciplinary hearings, coroner’s inquests/FAIs and patient complaints. 

Our 24-hour medico-legal helpline is answered by doctors from a range of specialties with real-life experience of the pressures and challenges you face on the wards.

Why you should choose the MDU

thumbnail

With you every step of the way

The MDU is here for you, no matter what challenges you face throughout your career.

Find out how we supported one member through a stressful GMC investigation lasting two years.

What are the benefits?

  • Robust defence of your professional reputation if you face a GMC, trust or disciplinary hearing, or if you're invited to attend a coroners' inquest.
  • Indemnity for work that falls outside your NHS contractual duties, including private practice work, fee-paying services and Good Samaritan acts.

  • Expert advice from our 24-hour medico-legal helpline on difficult ethical areas such as patient consent, capacity and confidentiality.
  • Round-the-clock press office support if you're involved in high profile cases.
  • Boost your learning with free educational seminars delivered at your hospital department, or online, with certificates of attendance provided.
  • Stay up to date with case studies, ethical dilemmas and the MDU journal.
  • Get evidence for revalidation and keep abreast of the latest guidance with our online CPD, courses, webinars and podcasts.

Becoming a member

Apply icon

Get a quote or apply now

Request a quote or complete an application form.

One member's story - signing a death certificate during the pandemic

thumbnail

A registrar member recalls the stress of working during the peak of the pandemic and describes how the MDU helped her navigate the new rules around death certification.

Frequently asked questions

What if COVID-19 has affected my work?

We understand that these are unprecedented times. That’s why we have put together the resources you need during this difficult time. For information on coronavirus, please visit our COVID-19 resources.

Why do I need the join the MDU if I already have NHS indemnity?

NHS indemnity only goes so far, and the benefits of MDU membership extend well beyond just providing professional indemnity for claims.

Unlike NHS indemnity, we can also offer legal support at GMC, trust, or disciplinary hearings, access to our 24-hour medico-legal helpline, advice on dealing with media enquiries from our dedicated press office, and expert medico-legal risk management advice.

We’re also here to help you learn and develop as your career progresses, and members can take advantage of our wide range of seminars, specialist training and online CPD courses.

How long will it take to process my application?

Everyone’s application is unique to their work circumstances.

It’s best to start the application process around four weeks before your current indemnity ends. This will allow plenty of time for your current provider to give you a letter of good standing, if needed.

We’ll keep you regularly updated by email once we’ve received your application. If we haven’t got everything we need, we’ll be in touch to clarify things.

To avoid any gaps in your indemnity, it’s important you don’t cancel your current indemnity until your MDU membership is confirmed.

Can I start work immediately after I’ve applied?

No. It’s important you wait to hear back from us about your application first. Please call our membership team on 0800 716 376 if you require your membership to start sooner.

What information do I need to complete my membership application?

Depending on your role, please have details about your work, registration, qualifications and indemnity history to hand.

I need help completing my application form. Who do I contact?

We’re always here to help and answer any questions. Call our membership team on 0800 716 376 or connect with your local MDU liaison manager here.