Ministry investigates Southland urologist

Patients treated by an Southland urologist have been told to have their care reviewed after claims he has been practising medicine uncertified.

The Health Ministry said it was investigating Sajan Bhatia after claims he practised medicine this year after his practising certificate was not renewed in December 2008.

A certificate is a legal requirement to practice medicine in New Zealand. Patients treated by Dr Bhatia since February 2007 are advised to contact their GP to have their care reviewed.

The Medical Council did not renew Dr Bhatia's annual certificate in December 2008, because he did not comply with his conditions of practice, the ministry said.

That followed findings of professional misconduct by the Health Practitioners Disciplinary Tribunal in February 2007 in relation to his treatment of a Southland woman in 2004.

After the tribunal's finding the council applied conditions to Dr Bhatia's practice, including regular peer reviews, an audit of his patient outcomes, and a requirement that he work under the supervision of another urologist.

Dr Bhatia was not able to demonstrate to the council that the conditions were satisfactorily met and, in December 2008, it did not renew his certificate, the ministry said.

A number of Dr Bhatia's former patients had already been reviewed, but privacy restrictions prevented the ministry from obtaining complete patient lists.

Dr Bhatia had not provided patient lists in response to requests.

The outcome of both ministry and council investigations may result in legal or disciplinary action against Dr Bhatia.

Former patients who do not have a GP can call 0800 524 524.

- NZPA