Dr. Stuart Wilkinson sanctioned for failing to meet expected standard of patient care

Edmonton, AB – Calgary family physician Dr. Stuart Wilkinson admitted to unprofessional conduct and was sanctioned by a CPSA Hearing Tribunal.

In April and June 2021, Dr. Wilkinson used his authority as a physician to order a blood test and an abdominal ultrasound for a patient he had never met, who was being treated by a naturopathic doctor for whom Dr. Wilkinson was consulting. Dr. Wilkinson did not follow up or arrange care based on the patient’s test results, as he believed the naturopathic doctor would do so, and failed to create any record of his involvement or the reason for ordering the tests.

The Hearing Tribunal accepted Dr. Wilkinson’s admission of unprofessional conduct, as well as a joint submission on sanction, and issued the following orders:

• Dr. Wilkinson will receive a reprimand.
• At his own cost, Dr. Wilkinson must complete a record-keeping course acceptable to CPSA’s Complaints Director.
• Dr. Wilkinson’s practice permit will include a condition prohibiting him from ordering any laboratory test or diagnostic imaging for a person he has not accepted as his patient and would be responsible for if follow up was required.
• Dr. Wilkinson is responsible for the costs of the investigation and hearing, totalling $10,000, to be paid in 12 equal monthly installments or on terms acceptable to the Complaints Director.

Resources:
CPSA Hearing Tribunal decision