Letter: The qualified and the quack
Your support helps us to tell the story
From reproductive rights to climate change to Big Tech, The Independent is on the ground when the story is developing. Whether it's investigating the financials of Elon Musk's pro-Trump PAC or producing our latest documentary, 'The A Word', which shines a light on the American women fighting for reproductive rights, we know how important it is to parse out the facts from the messaging.
At such a critical moment in US history, we need reporters on the ground. Your donation allows us to keep sending journalists to speak to both sides of the story.
The Independent is trusted by Americans across the entire political spectrum. And unlike many other quality news outlets, we choose not to lock Americans out of our reporting and analysis with paywalls. We believe quality journalism should be available to everyone, paid for by those who can afford it.
Your support makes all the difference.YOUR article 'Harley Street: a suitable case for lament' (1 May) was highly illuminating about the public's difficulty in distinguishing between qualified specialists and charlatans. With the plethora of medical degrees and titles in the UK it is almost impossible for the lay public to determine the real qualifications and status of their doctor.
The Calman Report proposed a new Certificate of Completion of Specialist Training (CCST) to be awarded to those successfully finishing a Royal College-recognised training programme. Unfortunately the medical establishment has so far refused to give this certificate full legal status.
The Liberal Democrats will be seeking all-party support for an amendment to the Medical Act this autumn for the creation of legal recognition of specialists and the use of the title 'specialist' to be restricted to holders of the CCST.
Liz Lynne MP
London SW1
Join our commenting forum
Join thought-provoking conversations, follow other Independent readers and see their replies
Comments