Achi news desk-
A Medicine Hat family doctor has been sanctioned by the College of Physicians and Surgeons of Alberta after being found guilty of sexually touching a vulnerable patient.
The June 2017 incident involved a developmentally delayed man whose mother testified to the tribunal that he told her Dr Gebhardt had touched him sexually while he was alone with the doctor in his office.
He got a license to practice Dr. Ian Gebhardt suspended for 20 months, with 17.5 months already served.
The remaining time is suspended “subject to compliance with the remaining orders of the Tribunal,” said the statement issued by the CPSA, as “Gebhardt is already out of practice.”
An escort who is a regulated health professional is required to be present for all Gebhardt patient encounters from 2022.
He must also take part in a multidisciplinary assessment at his own expense, and his license to practice is dependent on the outcome of the assessment, with the hearing tribunal retaining the authority to set the terms.
Gebhardt is also liable for two thirds of the cost of the investigation and hearing.
The doctor has appealed against the finding of unprofessional conduct made by the hearing tribunal. Meanwhile, the CPSA’s director of complaints has appealed the decision to suspend Gebhardt’s license to practice rather than cancel his registration with the College of Physicians and Surgeons of Alberta.
