The GMC has announced (16 December 2022) that it will “make initial contact with a doctor by phone if they need to investigate a concern…”
The new process “follows positive feedback from medical defence organisations, is part of a series of improvements by the GMC to take a more compassionate approach and reduce the impact of investigations”.
Further information about this change which followed recommendations previously provided by Professor Appleby, expert in mental health, can be found here: https://www.gmc-uk.org/news/news-archive/gmc-to-roll-out-personalised-contact-when-starting-investigations