Doctor Suspended for Benefit Fraud During Studies

A doctor who claimed over £10,000 in benefits while pursuing her medical degree has been suspended from treating patients. Dr. Ramkali Kaur, 28, illegally claimed housing benefit, income support, and carer's allowance for two years during her five-year study at Queen Mary University of London. This misconduct led to a four-month suspension by the Medical Practitioners Tribunal Service.

Kaur, who came from a deprived background and was the first in her family to attend grammar school, initially claimed carer's allowance legitimately. However, she failed to inform the Department for Work and Pensions upon starting university. Years later, after qualifying and working as a junior doctor, she was arrested and charged with benefit fraud, admitting three counts.

During proceedings, Kaur offered explanations involving family pressure, financial hardship, and a house fire. She also attempted to shift blame to a relative. Despite her contentions, the tribunal found her actions demonstrated a repeated pattern of dishonesty and a disregard for professional standards, leading to her suspension.