- Dr. Sharmila Chandran, a senior leader at RACP, has been suspended for breaching workplace health and safety protocols.
- The suspension is related to allegations of disregarding mandated safety procedures during a training rotation in Melbourne.
- Concerns were raised by junior doctors about unsafe work hours and inadequate mental health support.
- RACP is cooperating with AHPRA to ensure all obligations are met and implementing reforms to address safety issues.
- An independent audit will be conducted by the end of the quarter to ensure accountability and improvement.
Dr Sharmila Chandran, a senior leader at the Royal Australasian College of Physicians (RACP), has been suspended until 20 September following allegations of breaching workplace health and safety protocols. The suspension comes after an internal review identified potential failures in upholding safe working conditions for trainee physicians. The RACP confirmed it is cooperating fully with the Australian Health Practitioner Regulation Agency (AHPRA) to ensure all obligations are met, emphasizing its commitment to maintaining high standards across its training programs and administrative operations.
Alleged Safety Violations Uncovered
The suspension stems from findings that Dr Chandran may have disregarded mandated safety procedures during a recent training rotation in Melbourne. According to a preliminary report cited by The Guardian, concerns were raised by junior doctors about unsafe work hours and inadequate mental health support. The RACP acknowledged the issues, stating it is implementing immediate reforms. ‘The safety and wellbeing of our trainees are paramount,’ said a spokesperson, adding that an independent audit will be conducted by the end of the quarter.
Medical Community Reacts to Leadership Crisis
The suspension has sparked debate within Australia’s medical community, with the Australian Medical Association (AMA) calling for greater oversight of training institutions. Junior doctor associations have welcomed the accountability measures but expressed concern over retaliation risks. ‘This sends a message that systemic issues will no longer be ignored,’ said Dr Liam Nguyen, representing the Trainee Doctors’ Network. Meanwhile, RACP members are awaiting the outcome of the independent review, which could influence broader policy changes in physician training standards across Australasia.
Where This Stands Now
Dr Chandran remains on administrative leave pending the outcome of the investigation, with a final determination expected by late September. The RACP has appointed an interim leader to oversee compliance efforts and ensure continuity in its accreditation processes. Regulatory officials confirm that ongoing engagement with AHPRA will be critical in restoring public trust. Any further violations could result in sanctions against the college itself, potentially affecting its accreditation status for future training cohorts.
Source: The Guardian