Napier eye surgeon fined for breaching public health order

The Ministry of Health has issued two infringement notices to a Napier eye surgeon for seeing patients while unvaccinated.

Dr Phil Macdonald was issued with the notices for breaching clause 7 of the COVID-19 Public Health Response (Vaccination) Order 2021 in December 2021 and January 2022. Each infringement notice has a fee of $4,000.

Health practitioners, including medical doctors, can only offer in person health services if they are vaccinated for COVID-19 in accordance with the Order.

The Ministry of Health has also issued two infringement notices to Dr Deepak Gupta, a Dunedin eye surgeon. This is in addition to a notice issued in February this year.

Both doctors have deregistered with the New Zealand Medical Council meaning they are no longer able to practice as medical practitioners in New Zealand. If anyone has been treated by these persons since 26 January 2022, please email the Ministry at info@health.govt.nz or phone: 0800 855 066.