NHS Chief Condemns Surgeon for Harassing Female Medics
NHS England chief executive, Amanda Pritchard, has spoken out against the ‘predatory’ behaviour of surgeon Mr James Gilbert, based at Oxford University Hospital, who has been found guilty of sexually harassing four female colleagues. Pritchard described his actions as “appalling” and called for society to address uncomfortable questions regarding such behaviour.
In response to the incident, the NHS is developing a national sexual misconduct policy to support staff in reporting incidents anonymously and accessing independent investigators. Mr Gilbert faced an eight-month suspension following a disciplinary hearing by the medical practitioners tribunal service (MPTS), a decision which the General Medical Council is now appealing for a harsher punishment.
The Doctors’ Association has also taken the unprecedented step of calling for Mr Gilbert to be removed from the medical register. Highlighting the importance of maintaining a safe and compassionate work environment in the NHS, Pritchard emphasised that individuals engaging in predatory behaviour should not be allowed to work in healthcare settings.
Last year, NHS England introduced a “sexual safety charter” outlining commitments to combat sexual assault and harassment in healthcare. In a further effort to address these issues, a national policy on sexual misconduct is currently being developed to provide support to staff in reporting incidents and accessing appropriate assistance.
During the MPTS hearing, it was revealed that Mr Gilbert made inappropriate sexual comments and racist remarks, exploiting his senior position within the department. His behaviour included making lewd comments and inappropriate remarks towards female trainees, creating a hostile work environment.
Despite being dismissed by Oxford University Hospitals in May 2022 and facing GMC investigation, Mr Gilbert later worked as a locum doctor at University Hospitals Sussex Foundation Trust. This incident has prompted a review of hiring processes and recruitment procedures to prevent similar occurrences in the future.
In response to the allegations, Mr Gilbert stated that relevant parties were informed about his dismissal and the ongoing investigation by the GMC. However, the trust acknowledged that additional enquiries should have been made during the recruitment process.
The case of Mr James Gilbert highlights the importance of addressing sexual misconduct and harassment within the healthcare sector, and the need for stringent policies and procedures to safeguard employees and patients alike.