A doctor has been suspended after incorrectly under treating cancer patients for more than a decade.
NSW Minister for Health Jillian Skinner made the announcement during a media conference today.
Dr Kiran Phadke an oncologist and haematologist at Sutherland and St George Hospitals was suspended in June after a nurse raised concerns.
He had not worked in the hospitals since April this year.
A complaint was first raised within the cancer service about Dr Phadke’s choice of treatment for a blood cancer patient in late April, following revelations about a St Vincent’s oncologist who treated patients against protocol.
A review found three of his patients had been under treated for at least 13 years. One patient had died, and the records of another 14 patients are being reviewed.
South Eastern Sydney Local Health District clinicians yesterday contacted all affected patients or their next of kin.
A local helpline (1800 875 526) manned by registered nurses has been set up for any patients to raise concerns.
Minister Skinner said she had a great deal of admiration for the nurses who spoke out.
“I am sorry Dr Phadke’s patients and their families had this experience and I regret the uncertainty they are enduring at an incredibly emotional and difficult time in their lives,” she said.
“I thank the hospital staff whose courage to come forward uncovered the concerns and led to an investigation.
“We are now strengthening oversight to ensure no doctor works in isolation.’’
Ms Skinner denied a Special Commission of Inquiry was needed, and dismissed the suggestion that she had lost control of the Health Department in light of the three emerging scandals under her watch.
Asked if she would resign over her handling of the matters, Ms Skinner said "no".
