In a QCAT proceeding brought by the Health Ombudsman against a Doctor who, while working in the stressful environment of an Intensive Care Unit, slapped an agitated and distressed elderly patient, it was accepted that while principles of general deterrence are relevant, the purpose of disciplinary proceedings is to provide protection to the public not to be punitive. There was a finding of professional misconduct and the Doctor was reprimanded.
The Tribunal benefited from the joint position as to penalty submitted by the parties.
List Member Andrew Luchich appeared for the respondent Doctor.
