Leicester: GP who prescribed drugs to herself restored to work

A medical practitioner who was banned for prescribing drugs to himself and two relatives has been allowed to return to work.

Dr Julia Piper, who runs Leicester-based practice PrivateGP.com, prescribed the drug to herself 18 times over four years.

Between 2004 and 2021, she also prescribed the drug to two anonymous relatives 64 times. She received her suspension following a court hearing in May 2023.

She returned home after attending an eight-day truth-telling retreat.

She was reported to the General Medical Council (GMC) in November 2021 after an inspection by the Care Quality Commission found irregularities in her dispensing records.

This test was conducted because Dr. Piper was attempting to provide medical marijuana.

In court in 2023, GMC lawyer Peter Hogan said Dr Piper was “aware of his responsibilities under good medical practice”. [GMP] “He ignored prescribing guidance and lied to avoid getting into trouble,” he said, adding that she “displayed a degree of arrogance and lack of respect for GMP.”

Dr Piper told the court he had experienced “difficult personal circumstances” which included “serious personal and family health issues”.

She said she prescribed the unknown drug to herself “for a variety of reasons, including a perceived need for prompt treatment, but also for convenience.”

A reconsideration hearing was held on February 5, during which a letter from Dr. Piper’s colleagues reported on the steps she had taken to “correct herself and live a more honest life.”

This included an eight-day full-time retreat to help Dr. Piper “face the importance of truth.”

Ms Sharmista Michaels, chair of the review hearing, said in her report:[Dr Piper] She has a deeper understanding of the nature of her actions and has provided solid evidence of the significant steps she has taken to demonstrate further insight and continued integrity. This is supported by reports and supportive letters provided on her behalf. ”