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health3h ago
Top surgeon suspended for 'having sex with patient and sending explicit pics'
- Dr Chirag Patel, a consultant neurosurgeon in Wales, faced an eight-month suspension after a tribunal found a sexual relationship with a patient and explicit image exchanges.
- Patel allegedly prescribed addictive opioid MST and a muscle relaxant after the romantic relationship began, without informing the patient's GP or updating her records.
- The tribunal heard the relationship started after treating the patient for a disc issue and included a later spinal cord stimulator operation.
- Tribunal chair Remi Alabi noted that the doctor showed a reckless disregard for patient safety during the misconduct.
- The hospital system warned that removing the surgeon could be a disaster for patient care in Wales, given his unique role.
- Patel claimed the relationship began during personal marital difficulties and that he acted under fear of blackmail.
- The case involved police involvement that did not pursue charges, with reports going to Cardiff and Vale health board instead.
- The panel noted the patient’s requests for medication may reflect underlying addiction issues.
- Patel admitted the sexual relationship and sending explicit pictures during the tribunal proceedings.
- The eight-month suspension aimed to protect the public and reflect concerns about professional conduct.
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