18 Feb 2022

Unvaccinated Dunedin eye surgeon fined for seeing patients

1:37 pm on 18 February 2022

A Dunedin eye surgeon has been fined $4000 for seeing patients while unvaccinated for Covid-19 and is no longer able to practice in New Zealand, the Ministry of Health says.

Optometry concept. Male patient under optometrist optician examinination of eyesight in eye ophthalmological clinic

(file picture). Photo: 123rf

Dr Deepak Gupta was issued a notice for breaching clause 7 of the Covid-19 Public Health Response (Vaccination) Order 2021, following complaints investigated by the Health Ministry.

Health practitioners, including medical doctors, can only offer in person health services if they are vaccinated for Covid-19 in accordance with the Order.

At the time of the offending, Dr Gupta was registered as a medical practitioner with the Medical Council of New Zealand.

In a statement the Ministry said Dr Gupta's registration was cancelled at his own request as at 25 January, which means he is no longer able to practice as a medical practitioner in New Zealand.

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