Windsor Doctor’s License Reinstated After Abuse Findings

A family doctor from Tecumseh, Ontario, who had his medical license revoked after being found guilty of sexually abusing a patient has now been allowed to return to practice under strict supervision nearly seven years after the revocation.

The Ontario Physicians and Surgeons Discipline Tribunal approved the reinstatement of Dr. Haider Hasnain’s certificate of registration on June 9 “with terms, conditions and limitations,” noting he has shown signs of rehabilitation.

<p. Hasnain received his medical license in 1992 and worked in family medicine for many years before his certificate was taken away in August 2019 after a disciplinary panel determined that he had engaged in a sexual relationship with a woman who was also one of his patients.

The tribunal revealed that the relationship lasted several months back in 2009 while the woman rented space at Hasnain’s clinic for her laser treatment business.

The original ruling also classified his actions as “disgraceful, dishonourable or unprofessional conduct.”

According to the tribunal, Hasnain admitted that his behavior qualified as “sexual abuse” and acknowledged that he had a physician-patient relationship during five medical appointments he provided for the woman.

Ontario law states that physicians whose licenses have been revoked due to sexual abuse may request reinstatement after a minimum period of five years. The tribunal noted that Hasnain applied for reinstatement after around six years.

In its ruling, the tribunal mentioned that during the years leading up to his application, Hasnain focused on rehabilitation through psychotherapy, professional ethics training, counseling, and administrative roles within health-care organizations.

The panel found he expressed remorse for his actions, recognized their seriousness, and made restitution to the former patient which included paying $75,000 along with following earlier orders regarding therapy and counseling reimbursements.

It stated that the College of Physicians and Surgeons of Ontario did not oppose Hasnain’s application for reinstatement and accepted testimony from therapists, instructors, and other professionals who confirmed Hasnain’s progress.

Strict terms and conditions imposed

While restoring Hasnain’s license, the tribunal established strict terms, conditions, and limitations. He must complete at least 12 months of clinical supervision beginning with high-level supervision for no less than two months followed by moderate supervision for at least four months and low-level supervision for at least six months.

“At each level, supervision will only cease with college approval. During these three phases clinical supervisors must evaluate Dr. Hasnain’s cases and submit reports to the college covering various topics including treatment quality documentation relationships with health-care staff along with patient management,” reads part of their decision.

Additionally Hasnain’s practice will be evaluated by an assessor appointed by the college along with potential unannounced inspections.

The panel concluded there is a low risk for future misconduct which can be managed through these attached conditions on his license.

“The practice of medicine is a privilege not a right,” emphasized the tribunal stating that reinstatement should only happen if it serves public interest well.</pp

has tried reaching out to Hasnain for comments.

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