The Oath: Episode - "The College"
Introduction
In the fifth episode of The Oath, titled "The College," TVO delves into the intricate and often opaque processes of the College of Physicians and Surgeons of Ontario (CPSO). This episode scrutinizes how the CPSO handles complaints, particularly those involving serious allegations like sexual abuse and conversion therapy, through the lens of Dr. Melvin Iscove's case.
Background on Dr. Melvin Iscove
Dr. Melvin Iscove, a psychiatrist whose medical license was revoked in 2018, stands at the center of this investigation. Accused of sexually abusing two patients, Iscove's case initially appeared straightforward. However, as journalist Krysia Collyer and co-producer Brennan Lefler began their inquiry, deeper and more troubling layers emerged.
Investigations and CPSO's Handling of Complaints
The episode highlights significant concerns regarding the CPSO's transparency and efficacy in handling serious misconduct allegations. Christian Collier, the host, narrates how Iscove was questioned about his adherence to outdated and discredited methods of conversion therapy during his hearing:
"If someone doing conversion therapy in 2002, they would not have been able to find good evidence-based publications on its efficacy." (01:02)
Despite the CPSO's commitment to evidence-based care, the regulator deemed Iscove's practices not a violation of current standards, raising questions about their assessment criteria.
Insights from Former CPSO Investigator Paul Lobsinger
Brennan Lefler interviews Paul Lobsinger, a retired police officer and former CPSO investigator, who provides an insider's perspective on the investigation process:
"Izcov was an adherent of a psychoanalyst from, like, the 50s named Burglar. Do you remember anything about that?" (03:06)
Lobsinger expresses skepticism about the CPSO's handling of cases involving outdated and harmful practices, emphasizing the need for rigorous accountability.
Challenges in Obtaining Information
A significant portion of the episode focuses on the difficulties Collyer and Lefler face in accessing detailed information from the CPSO. Multiple attempts to request comprehensive data and interviews are met with vague responses and references to confidentiality:
"They have different data retention schedules for different kinds of documents. What are those different data retention schedules? The answer? You guessed it. That's confidential." (12:24)
This lack of transparency hinders the ability to fully understand and assess the CPSO's actions regarding misconduct allegations.
Contextualizing with the Dr. Brian Thicke Case
To illustrate ongoing issues within the CPSO, the episode recounts the high-profile case of Dr. Brian Thicke. Initially dismissed by the CPSO, multiple complaints eventually led to Thicke pleading no contest to misconduct charges. This case underscores the CPSO's struggles with timely and effective responses to serious allegations.
"The review board released its findings to the public. And that's how it came out that the CPSO was aware of at least one other complaint against Thicke stemming from an incident in 1994." (14:05)
Patient X's Experience
Patient X, one of Iscove's accusers, shares his harrowing experience of coming forward:
"Uncomfortable. Wasn't something I really wanted to do. I was very adamant about not speaking about it for a long time. I was embarrassed and ashamed..." (06:39)
He praises the CPSO for being professional and supportive despite his initial reluctance, highlighting a more positive aspect of the regulatory body's response.
Ongoing Issues and Calls for Accountability
The episode concludes by emphasizing the persistent lack of transparency within the CPSO and the broader need for systemic reforms. Dr. Gayle Robinson criticizes the CPSO for not outright condemning conversion therapy, reflecting on the missed opportunity to take a strong stand against harmful practices:
"I think that that was really a voice avoiding an important issue and not being willing to just come right out and say no." (18:58)
Furthermore, the episode teases the continued investigation into Iscove's case, including undisclosed complaints and the mysterious withdrawal of a hearing notice.
Conclusion
"The College" paints a comprehensive and critical picture of the CPSO's handling of serious misconduct allegations, using Dr. Melvin Iscove's case as a focal point. Through interviews, documented evidence, and personal testimonies, TVO highlights significant gaps in transparency and accountability within Ontario's medical regulatory framework. As the investigation unfolds, the episode underscores the urgent need for reforms to ensure patient safety and trust in medical professionals.
Notable Quotes with Timestamps:
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Dr. Gayle Robinson: "You're either sick or sinful. Those were the messages absorbed by generations of people." (00:27)
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Paul Lobsinger: "Izcov was an adherent of a psychoanalyst from, like, the 50s named Burglar." (03:06)
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Patient X: "I didn't actually make that decision to come forward right away. I was still quite hesitant..." (05:37)
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Paul Hart (Malpractice Lawyer): "The reality is no one's gone to court to really flesh out what that legislation permits." (10:16)
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Dr. Gayle Robinson: "Any kind of therapy which says that it's trying to change your sexual orientation as opposed to make you comfortable with your sexual orientation, is a form of conversion therapy." (17:51)
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Paul Lobsinger: "You've got this public hearing announcement and then you can't figure out whatever happened." (21:53)
Timestamps Reference:
Note: Click on the timestamps to reference specific moments in the episode.