Negligent doctor 'free to practice again'
November 30, 2007
A doctor found guilty of medical negligence resulting in manslaughter has been granted permission to return to work by the General Medical Council (GMC).
Dr Amit Misra was found to have failed to carry out the appropriate medical tests on 31-year-old Sean Phillips prior to the patient contracting, and dying of, toxic shock syndrome in 2000.
Moreover, since his manslaughter conviction - which led to a suspended jailed sentence - Dr Misra has failed to pass several basic GMC medical assessment tests.
Mr Phillips' family has expressed outrage at the surgeon's reappointment, which sees him added again to the medical register.
Myles, his father, said: "I am amazed the GMC have given him a second chance. Are they really that desperate for doctors?"
Talking to the Evening Standard, he added: "In a recent performance assessment the examining body said he couldn't even tie a surgical knot, which is an essential part of medical care - if he had got reports that said he was competent then I would say it is seven years down the road and he has been found to be safe.
"But that is not the case."
According to the GMC's ruling, Dr Misra must now undertake a basic surgical skills course and can only apply for trainee posts.
He is also legally required to let all future employers know of his previous manslaughter conviction.