Supplementary memoranda submitted by the
British Medical Association
The Home Affairs Committee requested further
information from the BMA regarding medical conditions that would
trigger concern when diagnosed in firearms holders.
Doctors may contact the police or other appropriate
authorities where they have concerns about a patient who they
know holds a current licence and is in possession of firearms.
Such cases would be based upon individual assessments of the patient
in question. The type of circumstances whereby GPs may contact
the police or other appropriate authorities with concerns about
a patient who they know is in possession of firearms include where
the patient was depressed and especially expressing significant
suicidal ideation, has diagnosed dementia, or where the patient
demonstrated a florid psychosis. Concomitant use of drugs, including
recreational drugs such as cannabis, or prescribed medication
with effects on mental function (including hypnotics, benzodiazepines,
antidepressants and major tranquilisers) will be relevant to the
assessment of the patient. In many such cases, the GP will take
expert advice, for example from a local psychiatrist or from his/her
practice partners.
19 November 2010
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