An established doctor in Bradford won’t be practising medicine for four months, following an investigation by the College of Physicians and Surgeons of Ontario.

In a ruling on Nov. 16, the college found Murray Bruce Wilson guilty of professional misconduct. The College has suspended his certification of registration effective Nov. 17 and fined him $5,000.

The decision stems from an incident 12 years ago. According to documents released by the College, a woman – who was then in her teens – attended an appointment at Wilson’s office in December 2004.

The patient informed Wilson that she was experiencing pain from having had intercourse earlier that day. She also told the doctor she had been dealing with lower back pain for two months.

An examination was conducted, which included a breast and pelvic examination, as well as a vaginal swab. Documents also show that Wilson conducted a lower back assessment. 

Wilson documented both examinations.

The patient reported to the College in 2013 that Wilson didn’t provide her with a gown during the examination, but only a drape. The ruling states that she “found it hard to cover herself sufficiently throughout the appointment. This left her feeling exposed and vulnerable.”

According to the College, Wilson didn’t explain his reasons for conducting the examinations or why he was specifically asking her about her sexual experience.

Wilson has been ordered to appear before the College to be reprimanded.

This isn’t the first time Wilson has been investigated by the College of Physicians and Surgeons.

In 2012, Wilson was the subject of an undertaking by the College after receiving complaints from female patients. In two instances, “Dr. Wilson moved the patient’s clothing aside and commenced an examination without adequate explanation or consent.”

Wilson was ordered to have a regulated health professional with him when he conducted examination on female patients. He was also ordered to post signs advising patients of the restriction in waiting and examination rooms.

The college says they haven’t received any other complaints about Wilson since the undertaking took place in 2012.

The regulated health professional has also informed the college that she hasn’t had any concerns about Wilson’s contact with female patients.

Back in 2011, Wilson voluntarily completed a course on understanding boundary issues and managing the risks inherent in the doctor-patient relationship.