Surgeon Disqualified After Inappropriate Behavior in Hospital Restroom

A surgeon who was caught undressing in a restroom stall and suggested to a colleague they engage in sexual activity has been removed from the medical registry.

Dr. Samuel Stefan was employed at Queen Alexandra Hospital in Portsmouth when a junior colleague, who had previously communicated with him online, arranged to meet him in the hospital’s restroom.

The junior staff member stated that this location was chosen for convenience and emphasized that he had no intention of engaging in sexual acts. The panel noted he was left feeling “shocked, numb, and scared” following the encounter.

It was revealed that Dr. Stefan failed to apologize to the man or to two other colleagues whom he was found to have sexually harassed. He did not have representation during the hearing last month and was absent from the proceedings.

Allegations of Misconduct

As a colorectal surgeon, Dr. Stefan was additionally accused of attempting to kiss another colleague and exposing himself. The Medical Practitioners Tribunal Service (MPTS) panel concluded that he persistently tried to touch the thigh and genital area of a third colleague while they were on duty in the hospital.

The panel determined that Dr. Stefan’s actions constituted sexual harassment and represented a significant violation of professional standards expected of medical practitioners.

While the first victim reported the incidents to law enforcement, the second and third victims chose not to file complaints due to feelings of embarrassment, as the panel was informed.

Conclusion of the Hearing

The panel ultimately found Dr. Stefan accountable for “very serious” misconduct. Following the hearing, it was decided that he would be immediately removed from the medical register.