A family doctor in Toronto has faced a three-month suspension following a disciplinary tribunal’s findings that he violated professional protocols during a patient examination and made inappropriate remarks about her body. Dr. Tahmoures Bahrami, during a hearing held by the Ontario College of Physicians and Surgeons in March, did not contest allegations of professional misconduct toward a female patient during an appointment in October 2020.
During the appointment, the tribunal determined that Bahrami neglected to explain a physical examination to the patient, proceeded to palpate her side with his arm around her, and commented on her physique, stating she had “a woman’s body.” Two years later, at another appointment with the same patient, Bahrami allegedly engaged in further inappropriate conduct. While preparing to perform a breast exam, he reportedly attempted to remove the patient’s shirt without providing a gown or draping, failed to offer a chaperone, and made inappropriate comments about her body.
The patient later filed a complaint with the College, expressing discomfort over Bahrami’s remarks and actions. Despite attempts to reach Bahrami for comment, there was no response. Although Bahrami had no prior formal disciplinary history with the College, concerns over his conduct had been raised previously.
In 2014, he was directed to undertake a self-directed learning program after reportedly moving a patient’s bra without consent in Manitoba and failing to use proper draping. Subsequently, in 2017, the College mandated additional self-learning on communication and boundaries, particularly concerning patient examinations and home visits. However, the tribunal found that despite these interventions, Bahrami displayed insensitivity and recklessness during the patient’s intimate examination.
Consequently, the tribunal accepted a joint submission for a three-month suspension, along with further ethical training and payment of $6,000 in costs to the College. Bahrami will also face an official reprimand from the College at a later date. His suspension began on Feb. 1, and he is scheduled to resume practice on May 1.
