A Halifax doctor has been cleared after a six-year suspension after allegations made by a colleague.
Michael Goodyear, an oncologist at the Queen Elizabeth II Health Sciences Centre and a professor of medicine at Dalhousie University, was barred from work and research, and had his salary cut by 86 per cent after questions were raised about his medical decisions in 2002.
Late last week, the Capital District Health Authority Board of Directors found the allegations were baseless and reinstated Goodyear.
“Dr. Goodyear is obviously extremely pleased with the board of directors‚ decision. (It) is a complete and total vindication,” lawyer Colin Clarke said on Goodyear’s behalf. He added Goodyear is hoping to return to work quickly and that the health authority will compensate him for the “extraordinary losses” he’s suffered over the past six years.
James Turk, executive director of the Canadian Association of University Teachers, said the process took far too long.
“We’re delighted that Dr. Goodyear has been fully vindicated,” Turk said. “What the report is silent about, however, is compensating him for what he’s been put through for the last six years.”
Turk said Goodyear’s case highlights the urgent need for changes to the province’s medical bylaws so allegations can be dealt with more quickly.
Chris Power, head of Capital District Health Authority, welcomed the findings.
“Capital Health accepts the findings of the review and will move forward with the timely implementation of the rulings, in collaboration with Dr. Goodyear,” she said.
Charles Crosby, spokesman for Dalhousie, said the university was pleased Goodyear’s ordeal was over. “We look forward to working with him in the future.”
Cardiologist Gabrielle Horne was suspended around the same time as Goodyear. After four years, she too was fully cleared. She’s now suing Capital Health.
