Several hearing dates have been set aside for a Chatham eye doctor accused of professional misconduct.
Ophthalmologist Dr. Christopher Anjema is scheduled to have his first hearing with a panel of the Discipline Committee of the College of Physicians and Surgeons of Ontario (CPSO) on May 25, 2020. Further hearing dates have been set for November 23-27, 30, December 1, 2, 14-18, and 21-22 -- all in 2020.
The purpose of the hearings is to decide "whether Dr. Anjema has committed an act or acts of professional misconduct or is incompetent."
If the panel finds that Dr. Anjema has committed an act or acts of professional misconduct or is incompetent, it may take one of several actions including revoking or suspending his certificate of registration, issuing a fine of up to $35,000, and/or imposing specific terms, conditions and limitations on his certificate of registration for a specified or indefinite period of time.
Anjema has been under investigation by the College since May 18, 2018 amid allegations of disgraceful, dishonourable, or unprofessional conduct.
The College also previously ordered Anjema to "practise under the guidance of a Clinical Supervisor acceptable to the College" and restricted him from performing three specific procedures under certain conditions.
According to a spokesperson for the CPSO, the Discipline Committee's hearings typically involve the College presenting its concerns and findings from any investigations and calling upon witnesses if necessary. Then, the individual who is the subject of the hearing has the opportunity to provide a defence.
The College is not expected to finalize a location for the hearing until closer to the date, but the vast majority of the hearings are held at the CPSO's office on 80 College Street in Toronto and are open to the public.
A previous statement to Blackburn News from the Anjema Eye Institute regarding the allegations against the doctor said Anjema "looks forward to providing comprehensive facts regarding allegations which he is confident will result in an evidence-based outcome in the interests of the thousands of patients whom he is proud to serve."