To All Members
24th October 2014
Circular 36.14
Annual Medicals – Joint Statement
This joint statement (between MDP and DPF) is issued to inform officers of the fact that the medical trial at Menwith Hill and Fylingdales (as articulated in FO 47/14) is now concluded.
Results are yet to be fully analysed, but although some positives have resulted from the trial it has also become apparent that the delivery process for the medicals being provided by OH Assist needs to be improved.  Some deficiencies have been identified that require further investigation and discussion between the respective stakeholders to remove any doubts over eligibility for the medicals, their conduct and delivery.
With this in mind, both the Force and DPF have agreed that it would be beneficial to pause the expansion of the medical trials until end November 14 (or beyond if necessary) to enable sufficient time to address / resolve the issues concerned. Moreover, to ensure that the policy and process are clearly articulated and then implemented accordingly.
It is perhaps worth reiterating that there is a statutory requirement to be met under H&S and the Force has an obligation under CoP in order to protect firearms licensing. So, both the Force and the DPF remain committed to implementation of these medicals, as being in the interests of the Force and the health and well being of every officer. Furthermore, to deliver them, fully aware of the necessity to protect the confidentiality of personal medical records, and indeed the safety of all concerned, whilst meeting those requirements, and will jointly strive to do so.
John Regan                                David King
General Secretary                           Hd Corporate Services
