Arabic version: طبيب نفسي يتلقى إيقافًا قصيرًا بسبب التحرش الجنسي

A sole inpatient psychiatrist in a WA regional area has been suspended for three-and-a-half months for repeatedly sexually harassing a nurse, including over several messaging platforms. The Medical Board of Australia opted for a lighter penalty, partially due to a shortage of psychiatrists in the region.

According to ABC News, Panduranga Mallikarjun Rapuri admitted to the professional misconduct that occurred between late 2023 and early 2024. Upon his return to work, he will have conditions imposed on his practice.

Dr. Rapuri, the sole psychiatrist responsible for the inpatient care of mental health patients in the region, had been pursuing a female nurse over a two-month period despite her repeated rejections. He sent numerous messages through various platforms, including text messages and social media, which the nurse described as harassment.

Following the incident, Dr. Rapuri was suspended on full pay and required to attend training about “managing boundaries and communication”. He was later transferred to another team and subjected to supervision for a year. The Medical Board made its decision regarding the suspension about two years after the initial complaints.

The WA Country Health Service emphasized that sexual harassment is unacceptable in the workplace and took immediate action to protect staff. WA Health Minister Meredith Hammat echoed this sentiment, stating that everyone deserves to feel safe at work. The Royal Australian and New Zealand College of Psychiatrists is currently reviewing Dr. Rapuri’s membership status in light of the tribunal’s findings.