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Jul 18, 2011
2nd time doctor fined and suspended
By Salma Khalik
Dr Ng Chee Keong, 43, a general practitioner with a clinic in Eunos, has been found guilty of over-prescribing sleeping pills. -- ST PHOTO: NG SOR LUAN
A DOCTOR who was fined $10,000 and suspended for six months in 2009, received an identical penalty for a similar offence.
Dr Ng Chee Keong, 43, a general practitioner with a clinic in Eunos, has been found guilty of over-prescribing sleeping pills.
The Singapore Medical Council said in a statement on Monday: 'Given the rising incidences of such undesirable conduct by medical practitioners, the disciplinary committee was of the view that this misconduct should be treated seriously to deter any medical practitioners from committing similar acts.'
Both complaints were made by the Ministry of Health.
The first complaint was made in February 2008 and the disciplinary inquiry into 22 charges was held in September 2009.
The second complaint was made in May 2009 and the inquiry held in June this year. Dr Ng pleaded guilty to all 11 charges.
The current six month suspension started on July 11.
In giving its verdict, the disciplinary committee said it 'found the extent of Dr Ng's over-prescription to be excessive, irresponsible and potentially dangerous as Dr Ng's prescribing patterns were potentially habit-forming and could cause drug dependence'.
