A Queensland surgeon accused of sexual misconduct and serious malpractice has been suspended. William Braun — a general surgeon — has worked across numerous Queensland public and private hospitals including Redcliffe and the Royal Brisbane and Women’s Hospital. Shadow health spokeswoman Ros Bates outed the surgeon in parliament on Tuesday, tabling numerous complaints. Ms Bates did not name the doctor in her speech, but he was named in complaints tabled. Some of the complaint documents were dated, while some were anonymous. In others, names had been redacted. A Metro North Hospital and Health spokesman said for privacy reasons, it could not comment on individual matters. “However, we can say that we have suspended a staff member in relation to the allegations raised,” he said. “For legal reasons, we are unable to provide further information. “We have a zero tolerance towards inappropriate behaviour in the workplace. “Sexual harassment in our health service is completely unacceptable and we actively encourage and support staff to report any incidents.” Dr Braun could not be reached for comment. A spokeswoman for the Office of the Health Ombudsman said it was aware of allegations about Dr Braun and would carefully review them. However it did not respond to questions about whether Dr Braun had also been suspended from the private sector. Health Minister Steven Miles urged MPs to report complaints of misconduct as soon as they received them so action could be rapid.
