Former patients of Dr. Stellios (Stan) Theodoros, a retired Brisbane doctor, have come forward expressing feelings of violation following allegations of professional misconduct. The accusations include performing an “excessive” number of pap smears and inappropriate conduct, such as kissing a patient on the lips. These claims have been brought to light by the Office of the Health Ombudsman (OHO), which has filed disciplinary proceedings against Dr. Theodoros in the Queensland Civil and Administrative Tribunal (QCAT).
The proceedings involve 25 allegations of misconduct related to seven patients, spanning from 2002 to 2015. Dr. Theodoros, who was a co-owner of the Wellers Hill Medical Centre in Brisbane, is accused of conducting unnecessary pap smears, breast checks, and pelvic examinations. Additionally, the OHO claims he failed to maintain adequate medical records and professional boundaries.
Patient Experiences and Allegations
Beverley Glen*, one of the former patients, shared her discomfort with the frequency and nature of the examinations conducted by Dr. Theodoros. She recalls an instance during a breast check when he commented on her “soft breasts,” which she found unsettling. Beverley had been a patient for nearly a decade before another practitioner questioned the necessity of her annual pap smears.
Another patient, Charlotte White*, described feeling vulnerable due to her mental health condition when she started seeing Dr. Theodoros. Despite a negative biopsy result, she was subjected to pap smears every six months for two years, which she believes were excessive and invasive.
The OHO’s investigation was triggered in 2015 by a notification from another doctor at the practice. Allegations include inappropriate touching, kissing a patient, and asking a woman to strip naked for a breast and skin check after a pap smear.
Legal Proceedings and Doctor’s Defense
Dr. Theodoros has not denied the occurrence of the examinations or the lack of some medical records. However, he disputes the clinical necessity of the procedures and whether professional boundaries were breached. In an attempt to dismiss the QCAT proceedings, Dr. Theodoros argued that the allegations were outdated and lacked substance.
QCAT member David Reid rejected this motion, emphasizing the importance of addressing such concerns to promote safe medical practices. The tribunal proceedings have been ongoing for over five years since the initial complaint.
Regulatory Actions and Patient Reactions
In 2016, the Medical Board of Australia imposed conditions on Dr. Theodoros’ registration, prohibiting him from seeing female patients without a chaperone and performing gynecological procedures. Dr. Theodoros voluntarily complied with these conditions until his retirement in 2021 and surrendered his registration in 2022.
Beverley expressed frustration over the delayed regulatory response, noting that Dr. Theodoros continued to practice for years despite the investigation. Charlotte echoed this sentiment, highlighting the drawn-out process and the lack of awareness among the public about the situation.
“The detection and punishment of doctors who engage in misconduct does have the effect of promoting the safe and competent conduct of all practitioners,” stated QCAT member David Reid.
Implications and Future Considerations
The allegations against Dr. Theodoros raise significant concerns about patient safety and the effectiveness of regulatory bodies in addressing misconduct. The case underscores the need for timely investigations and transparency to maintain public trust in the healthcare system.
As the proceedings continue, the focus remains on ensuring accountability and preventing similar incidents in the future. The experiences of Beverley, Charlotte, and others highlight the importance of patient awareness and advocacy in safeguarding their rights and well-being.
For further information or to share similar experiences, contact Investigative Reporter Eden Gillespie at [email protected] or [email protected].
*Names have been changed to protect privacy.
