GP facing misconduct allegations at hearing

Dr Michael Ross appeared at a fitness to practise hearing this week facing allegations relating to his time as a GP at Todmorden Group Practice and Calderdale Community Practice.

The case at the Medical Practitioners Tribunal Service (MPTS) in Manchester was adjourned yesterday until December.

Allegations in relation to Dr Ross’s behaviour towards “Patient A” at the Todmorden surgery in 2009 and 2010 are listed in a public document issued by the MPTS.

The patient was vulnerable and having treatment for mental health problems, the MPTS said.

The MPTS document said: “During more than one consultation with Patient A between approximately September 2009 and August 2010 you sat with Patient A’s knees between your knees, put your hand on Patient A’s knees, embraced Patient A.”

This behaviour was alleged to have been “sexually motivated”.

Further allegations relate to Dr Ross’s “failure to provide good clinical care” to other patients while working as a locum GP at the Calderdale Community Practice between February 2013 and November 2013.

The MPTS hearing will decide whether the allegations are proven and if Dr Ross’s fitness to practise is impaired by reason of misconduct.

The MPTS said the allegations document reflected the claims against Dr Ross as they stand. The allegations can be amended as the hearing progresses and when findings of fact are determined.