Fredericton psychiatrist risks losing licence after not contesting misconduct allegations
CBC
A Fredericton psychiatrist could permanently lose his medical licence after choosing not to contest allegations of sexual misconduct at a disciplinary hearing on Tuesday morning.
Dr. Manoj Bhargava was presented with sanctions by the College of Physicians and Surgeons of New Brunswick for several long-standing complaints.
Bhargava worked at the University of New Brunswick student health centre, and was suspended by the College of Physicians and Surgeons of New Brunswick in November 2020 after several complaints of inappropriate touching were filed.
At his disciplinary hearing, the college's lawyer, Joël Michaud, described the allegations against Bhargava.
They were based on complaints made by 20 individuals, whose identities are protected by a publication ban.
The statement said Bhargava committed unprofessional misconduct taking heart rate and blood pressure measurements that were "inconsistent with the standards of the profession" outlined by the College of Physicians and Surgeons.
It said Bhargava also made comments, asked questions and made requests that were not consistent with the standards of the profession.
According to the statement, Bhargava "treated all complainants in a manner that could reasonably be perceived by members as being disgraceful, dishonorable and unprofessional."
None of the allegations have been proven in court.
The lawyers for the college and Bhargava jointly recommended sanctions to revoke his licence and remove his name from the register.
It said Bhargava should never seek another licence in New Brunswick, and that he pay $5,000 to cover legal fees.
Bhargava joined the meeting with his lawyer Sacha Morisset, who said he had no questions to add to the uncontested evidence or the sanctions. Bhargava did not speak at the hearing.
The board of inquiry, composed of three doctors, will go through the submission and will make a written decision in the "very near future."
Meanwhile, Barghava's legal issues continue to play out in the court with the filing of new lawsuits.
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