Sydney gynecologist must have attendant to examine female patients

A Sydney, N.S., obstetrician and gynecologistis now required to"have an attendant present for all female patient encounters" after agreeingto the measure withthe College of Physicians and Surgeons of Nova Scotia.

Dr. Manivasan Moodley beganpractising at the Cape Breton Regional Hospital in March.

CBC News has obtained a copy of a notice sent to pharmacists, health-care professionals and stakeholders.The undertaking with the college stipulates"the attendant will have an unobstructed view of any procedure performed." The attendant must be there "from beginning to end."

Thecollegeis not explaining what prompted the undertaking, and said thatunder the Medical Actit is not required to publicize voluntary agreements.

In an email, it said such undertakings are"negotiated between the college and physicians for a variety of reasons and in a variety of circumstances."

Must post notices

The undertakingtook effect on Sept. 5and Moodley must post notices in his waiting room and exam rooms to let patients know anattendantis required.

The college saidtheattendantmust be a health-care professional that it has approved.

Moodley has not responded to a message from CBC News asking for comment. He has not been the subject of any disciplinary decisions.

Moodley graduated from theNelson RMandela School of Medicine at University of Kwazulu-Natal in South Africain 1987.