A doctor’s shocking misconduct during surgery has reignited debates about professional ethics and patient safety in the NHS.
Story Snapshot
- Dr Suhail Anjum left a patient under anaesthesia for sexual activity with a nurse.
- The incident occurred at Tameside Hospital, Greater Manchester, in 2023.
- Revealed during a 2025 tribunal hearing, it raises questions about NHS oversight.
- Dr Anjum admitted the misconduct, citing personal stress as a factor.
Incident Details and Professional Misconduct
In September 2023, Dr Suhail Anjum, a surgeon at Tameside Hospital, Greater Manchester, abandoned a patient under anaesthetic to engage in sexual activity with a nurse, identified only as Nurse C. This incident, discovered by a shocked colleague, was later revealed during a 2025 tribunal hearing as Dr Anjum sought to return to work in the UK. Dr Anjum admitted the behavior was “shameful” and expressed remorse, attributing his lapse in judgment to personal stress.
Regulatory Response and Public Reaction
The General Medical Council (GMC) oversees the fitness to practise hearings for UK medical professionals. In this case, the Medical Practitioners Tribunal Service is evaluating Dr Anjum’s ability to continue his career in light of his misconduct. Despite admitting fault and showing remorse, the incident has sparked public outrage and concern over patient safety and the integrity of NHS staff conduct.
The GMC confirmed that no harm came to the patient during Dr Anjum’s absence, yet the breach of professional standards remains a serious concern. This case underscores the necessity for strict adherence to ethical guidelines and the role of regulatory bodies in maintaining trust in healthcare systems.
Watch the report: A doctor reportedly walked out of an ongoing operation to engage in activity with a nurse.
Implications for the Medical Community
The revelation of Dr Anjum’s actions has broader implications for the medical community, highlighting the need for stringent protocols and accountability measures. While no harm came to the patient, the incident raises questions about the adequacy of current monitoring and disciplinary processes within the NHS. This case may set a precedent for how similar breaches are handled in the future, potentially leading to more rigorous oversight and disciplinary actions for professionals who compromise patient safety.
Sources:
Pakistani doctor walked out of surgery midway to have sex with nurse in UK: Report
Doctor caught having sex after leaving patient during operation avoids sanction