The NSW health department has launched an inquiry into four NSW hospitals where patients were treated by disgraced gynaecologist Emil Gayed, after a tribunal found him guilty of professional misconduct.
Dr Gayed was banned from practicing medicine for three years by the NSW Civil and Administrative Tribunal this month.
He was found guilty of professional misconduct over his treatment of patients at Manning Base Hospital, where his employment was suspended in February 2016 following accusations he had performed unnecessary invasive procedures on female patients, including a hysterectomy, often without consent.
It's now been revealed, following an internal investigation by NSW Health, that Dr Gayed had previously worked at three other NSW hospitals: Cooma Hospital (1994-1999), Kempsey District Hospital (1990-2003) and Mona Vale Hospital (2002-2007).
The inquiry will look into the management of any complaints, adverse events or performance issues relating to Dr Gayed at all four hospitals, and subsequent action taken by each Local Health District.
NSW Health deputy secretary Nigel Lyons said the department's focus is on "ensuring any woman with concerns about the care she may have received under Dr Gayed is provided with advice and any appropriate follow up assessment.
"Ensuring our patients receive quality and safe care is our priority and I am very sorry that this has not been the case for some women treated in the past by Dr Gayed," Dr Lyons said.
Dr Lyons said each of the four hospitals will make direct contact with any patient who has previously raised issues or complaints in the past regarding the treatment they received from Dr Gayed.
Gail Furness SC has been appointed to conduct the inquiry by the Secretary of NSW Health under Section 122 of the Health Services Act. Ms Furness will be assisted by Dr Greg Jenkins, a specialist obstetrician and gynaecologist. She has been asked to report back to NSW Health by September 30.
Anyone with concerns about treatment they may have received is encouraged to call a dedicated telephone line set up at each of the hospitals. A senior clinician will be available to answer questions and make any appropriate referrals for follow up care.
