Controversial neurosurgeon Dr Charlie Teo has expressed a strong desire to continue his practice in Australia, stating that many patients are now travelling abroad for treatment due to restrictions placed on him following disciplinary actions concerning two surgeries. In an interview with Nine’s 2GB radio, Dr Teo indicated that it is disheartening for Australians to seek his expertise overseas when he remains committed to helping them.
Dr Teo’s challenges stem from a ruling by the Health Care Complaints Commission (HCCC), which found him guilty of unsatisfactory professional conduct for surgeries performed in 2018 and 2019 at Prince of Wales Hospital. In these cases, the perceived risks associated with the operations were judged to outweigh any potential benefits, and it was determined he had failed to obtain proper consent from the patients. Tragically, both individuals did not wake from surgery and subsequently passed away.
As a result of the ruling, Dr Teo’s medical registration now includes conditions that require him to obtain a supportive letter from an approved neurosurgeon before he can perform any brain surgery in Australia. Despite being registered to practice, he claims he is effectively barred from operating domestically because other neurosurgeons are unwilling to provide the necessary letters of support.
In his appeal, Dr Teo lamented, “Aussies still want me, I still want to help Aussies,” emphasising the absurdity of Australians needing to leave the country while he remains available for patients globally. He underscored the prominence of medical tourism, noting that patients from around the world come to him, significantly impacting local economies as they bring family members and spend money during their stay.
Teo expressed frustration about the current situation, asking, “Why can’t I operate on Australians in Australia?” He remains optimistic about his ability to help and has acknowledged previous mistakes, stating that he has adopted new practices and recommendations for his current patients to ensure improved outcomes.
In light of these circumstances, Dr Teo is keen to resume his operations in Australia, believing it would not only benefit local patients but also contribute to the broader medical community.