Forced out GP is cleared of all allegations

1:13pm Friday 4th July 2008

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A POPULAR GP who was told to "retire" by his colleagues has been exonerated by investigators.

North Yorkshire and York Primary Care Trust found no evidence of wrongdoing by Dr Tim Pearson, a former GP at the Friary Surgery, Richmond.

An investigation was launched after Dr Pearson, 43, received a letter in March last year from his two partners at the surgery, informing him that he had to retire.

The practice has given no explanation for the decision. The exact nature of the allegations has not been made public, but Dr Pearson says the move followed a minor clerical issue. He is still working within the NHS.

A statement issued on Tuesday by the PCT said: "Following allegations made against Dr Timothy Pearson, formerly of the Friary Surgery, Richmond, by his former partners, North Yorkshire and York Primary Care Trust can confirm that no evidence has been found to support any allegation.

"Throughout the process, Dr Pearson has worked closely with the trust to ensure that a thorough and robust investigation was carried out.

"We are pleased to confirm that the investigation revealed no evidence of any wrongdoing on the part of Dr Pearson.

"In fact, all allegations have proved to be without any basis."

Dr Pearson declined to comment, other than to say he was "extremely pleased" with the outcome. He also thanked friends, former patients and members of the community for their support.

The doctor's "retirement" angered his former patients, who launched a campaign to support the GP.

About 70 members of the Justice for Dr Pearson group protested outside the Friary Surgery against his departure.

Following the controversy, Richmond's Quaker Lane GP surgery was forced to close its books for several months after a number of Dr Pearson's former patients transferred from the Friary practice.

A statement issued by the Justice for Dr Pearson group said: "We are absolutely delighted that Dr Pearson has finally been fully exonerated by the PCT investigation.

"Knowing Dr Pearson as we do, we have from the start been absolutely convinced of his innocence.

This was why so many people joined the campaign in his support and registered their disgust at the disgraceful treatment of an honourable man and a fine GP."

A spokeswoman for the Friary Surgery said they had not seen the PCT report and so were unable to comment.

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