Doctor’s Medical Licence Suspended Following Alleged Inappropriate Behaviour
An Arkansas State Medical Board emergency order of suspension has been issued for a doctor accused of engaging in sexual activities with staff members and walking around the clinic naked. The board took action against Dr David Diffine after receiving a complaint in July outlining the alleged misconduct, which was said to pose a threat to public health, safety and welfare.
The complaint detailed instances of Dr Diffine allegedly having sexual contact with staff members who were also his patients, as well as sexually harassing these individuals. Disturbing footage accompanying the complaint reportedly showed the doctor performing a sexual act with a staff member while others watched, in addition to him walking around the clinic unclothed.
In response to the allegations, Dr Bradley Diner, a member of the Arkansas Medical Foundation, expressed concerns about potential underlying issues such as a sexual compulsive disorder. He highlighted the need for a thorough evaluation of Dr Diffine’s fitness to continue practising medicine, especially in light of the reported inappropriate behaviour towards his office staff.
A majority of the Arkansas State Medical Board deemed Dr Diffine’s conduct to present an ongoing danger to the public, prompting the emergency suspension of his medical licence. This is not the first time Dr Diffine has faced disciplinary action, as his licence was previously suspended in 2017 over allegations of improper prescription practices. However, those charges were ultimately dismissed due to insufficient evidence.
Dr Diffine is scheduled to appear before a hearing on December 6 to address the allegations and determine whether he violated the Medical Practices Act. The board will specifically investigate whether he engaged in sexual harassment within the clinic or hospital setting, potentially compromising the well-being of his coworkers, employees, or patients.
The medical community and the public will be closely following the developments of this case as it raises concerns about professional conduct and the standards expected of healthcare providers in ensuring the safety and respect of all individuals under their care.