The Unforgotten Past of ‘Doctor Death’: Jayant Patel’s Journey from Australia to the US
Jayant Patel, the Indian-born physician known as ‘Doctor Death’ in Australia, has put his controversial past behind him and is now settled in the United States. Patel’s journey is a complex one, marked by a criminal conviction, a ban from practicing medicine, and a public scandal that followed his departure from Australia. Yet, he remains unapologetic and determined to move forward.
In a recent interview, Patel was confronted by journalist Ellie Dudley about his time at Bundaberg Base Hospital in Queensland, where he was accused of dangerous surgery, misdiagnoses, and patient deaths. Patel’s response was defiant, stating, ‘It was ages ago. I completely forgot about it and I’m beyond that. That’s done. That’s history.’ He added, ‘I don’t react to stupid criticisms, I’m (moved) on with my life. I’m fine.’
Patel’s nickname, ‘Doctor Death’, was a stark reminder of the serious allegations made against him during his time in Australia. The Queensland jury’s conviction in 2010 of three counts of manslaughter and one of grievous bodily harm, along with a subsequent ban from practicing medicine in Australia, were significant setbacks for the physician. However, the convictions were later overturned by the High Court of Australia, and Patel pleaded guilty to four counts of fraud related to his registration and employment in Queensland, receiving a suspended sentence.
Despite his past controversies, Patel has found a new life in Portland, US. He holds US citizenship and has faced disciplinary issues in New York and Oregon, but he remains focused on moving forward. As he stated, ‘I’m beyond that. I’m fine.’
The story of Jayant Patel serves as a reminder of the complex interplay between personal history, professional reputation, and the pursuit of a new beginning. It also raises questions about the impact of past controversies on an individual’s ability to rebuild and move on.