Former Newport GP sacked over sexual misconduct

AN independent tribunal has struck off a former Newport GP and Labour councillor after finding him guilty of sexual misconduct.

The tribunal, following a hearing concluded on Wednesday (22), ordered that Dr  Ibrahim Hayat's fitness to practice is currently impaired and imposed an immediate suspension, pending a 28-day appeal window.

The tribunal also determined to erase Dr Hayat’s name from the Medical Register.

During an examination in September 2015, Dr Hayat, a Labour candidate at the time, inappropriately touched a female patient and made explicit comments.

The patient, described as vulnerable during the incident, accused the doctor of engaging in sexually motivated behavior, a charge deemed "deplorable" by the General Medical Council (GMC).

The GMC investigates doctors and brings a case against them to the Medical Practitioners Tribunal Service (MPTS). Tribunals make independent decisions about a doctor’s fitness to practise medicine in the UK.

Despite the serious allegations, Dr Hayat continued to work as a locum GP for the Aneurin Bevan Health Board, subject to agreed restrictions to safeguard patients.

The doctor asserted that he notified the Labour party about the accusations. The party, however, denied having any knowledge of sexual misconduct but acknowledged being aware of his suspension.

In response to the authorities' decision, Dr Hayat expressed shock and devastation, stating that he had reflected on the complaint and engaged in professional development courses related to consent, confidentiality, chaperones, and safeguarding adults in primary care.

The authorities, however, deemed Dr Hayat's actions an abuse of trust, finding his remedial actions vague and insufficient. They concluded that his behaviour fell significantly below the expected standards of a doctor, with a substantial risk of repetition in the future.

"I would have liked to have gone back to work but have not worked for some time due to ill health including breast cancer. I would dearly love to take this to appeal in the High Court but I don't have the energy or the resources to take this matter further," Dr Hayat was quoted as saying by the BBC.

"I need to focus on my health and my loving family. I thank everyone for their support during what has been a long road to try to get justice."

A spokesperson for Aneurin Bevan University Health Board emphasised their commitment to patient safeguarding, stating they had investigated Dr Hayat's conduct and liaised with the GMC to impose restrictions ensuring patient safety.