Georgetown based physician, Nigel Mark Phipps, has received a license suspension of up to 18 months for showing nudes of himself to patients and colleagues while at work.
Phipps' case of professional misconduct was originally dealt with last year when 11 patients and three staff members took the 59-year-old to the College of Physicians and Surgeons of Ontario, over allegations that he showed them images of his penis and sexually touched two patients which led to Phipps having an erection. The disciplinary panel found Phipps guilty of misconduct on August 27th, 2018, but never really decided his fate as a practicing physician until today. Phipps has been ordered to pay a total of $176,660 in damages. And starting October 1st, he won't be allowed to practice medicine for 14 to 18 months. Phipps' victims, who were present in today's hearing, were calling for the doctor's complete expulsion as a practicing physician. Following the procedure, the women described Phipps' punishment as a slap in the face to what they went through because of his inappropriate behaviour, adding that they no longer trusted male doctors. Once Phipps' suspension ends, he'll only be allowed to practice as a physician under the supervision of another health care professional.
"The committee views the lengthy suspension, reprimand, and practice restrictions as a very serious penalty that properly reflects societal views and should maintain public confidence in the integrity of the profession and the college’s ability to regulate the profession in the public interest.” While Phipps serves his suspension, he is required to see psychiatrists approved by the College of Physicians and Surgeons of Ontario. Each psychiatrist will have to submit a regular report to the college on Phipps' progress. By: Niza Nondo
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