Dr. Romelito Delacruz, a Grande Prairie doctor, has been suspended and criminally charged for allegedly sexually assaulting two female patients.
In findings released Wednesday by the College of Physicians and Surgeons of Alberta, Delacruz - an ear, nose and throat specialist - is alleged to have assaulted two patients by "inappropriately examining" the patient's labia and buttocks.
The first patient saw Delacruz in June 2008 for a second opinion regarding symptoms she developed after a chin implant, the college said in its findings.
"During the appointment, she discussed other cosmetic concerns with Dr. Delacruz including issues related to a previous breast implant," the college report states.
"She alleged Dr. Delacruz fondled her breasts then asked her to pull down her jeans and panties and proceeded to touch her buttocks and labia while she was in the standing position."
The second patient was a 16-year-old who was referred to Delacruz for a tonsillectomy, the report states.
"During the appointment, the patient asked Dr. Delacruz about bumps on her lower legs (shins) because she had heard these bumps may be related to a throat infection," the college states.
"She alleged Dr. Delacruz unnecessarily exposed and examined her breasts. She also alleged Dr. Delacruz touched her buttocks and labia without gloves while she was in the standing position when there was no medical reason for him to do
so."
The college has suspended Delacruz for six months.
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Dr. Romelito Delacruz, Penalties
Delacruz has also been charged by police.
"As a result of a lengthy investigation, Grande Prairie RCMP have charged Doctor Romelito Delacruz with three counts of sexual assault," said RCMP Cpl. Roy Kennedy.
"These incidents occurred.. between 2005 and 2010."
According to the college, Delacruz will also have to, among other things, complete a boundaries course, undergo a disciplinary assessment and undergo treatment, all at his own expense.
Delacruz's suspension may be extended if his assessment shows that after that time he is still not fit to return to his duties, the college said.