A married doctor found himself in hot water for leaving an unconscious patient to engage in sexual activity with a nurse. The incident occurred when Dr Suhail Anjum, a consultant anaesthetist, left the operating theatre during a procedure at Tameside Hospital to have a rendezvous with a nurse. This lapse in judgment didn’t come without consequences, as the Medical Practitioners Tribunal Service (MPTS) delivered a formal warning for what they termed “serious misconduct.”
Despite the gravity of the situation, the tribunal determined that Dr Anjum is at a low risk of repeating such behaviour and opted not to impose any further sanctions. They described his actions as a “momentary lapse” rather than a habitual issue, and the warning serves as a stern reminder for him to maintain professional standards. Reflecting on the incident, Dr Anjum admitted it was a significant misjudgment and expressed deep regret, labelling it the “lowest point” of his career.
The warning will be publicly listed within the medical register, reminding all professionals of the critical importance of upholding patient trust and safety. Dr Anjum, who has since returned to Pakistan, was seen by a colleague in a compromising situation, leading to an internal investigation and his eventual departure from the hospital in early 2024. The incident, which occurred amid personal difficulties for Dr Anjum, highlighted the challenges of balancing professional duties with personal pressures.
This scandal emphasises the crucial need for trust and professionalism in medical practices, serving as a potent lesson to all in the healthcare profession.