Doctor on trial for kissing patient at Royal South Hants Hospital
Source: dailyecho.co.uk
TL;DR
- Doctor at Royal South Hants Hospital went on trial for kissing a patient twice on the lips during a clinic appointment.
- The patient reported Dr Hassan Twins held her face, kissed her not once but twice, after she tried to leave.
- Incident raises concerns over professional boundaries in medical settings, with trial ongoing at Southampton Crown Court.
The story at a glance
A doctor at the Royal South Hants Hospital's Urgent Treatment Centre faces trial accused of kissing a female patient twice on the lips. Dr Hassan Twins, 58, is said to have held her face as she prepared to leave after a stomach pain consultation. The case is being heard now at Southampton Crown Court, presided over by Recorder Donald Tait.
Key points
- Patient visited Urgent Treatment Centre run by Practice Plus Group for worsening stomach pains, waited 25 minutes after triage.
- During appointment, Twins insisted she remove her long-sleeve top for blood pressure test and said, "I wish we had met in different circumstances."
- Twins asked about her family, making her cry; he then hugged her.
- As she went to leave, Twins called her back, cupped her face, and kissed her on the lips twice—not a peck but not prolonged.
- Patient left in shock, returned to tell receptionist but was given only an email; she then reported to Southampton Central Police Station.
- Prosecutor Helen Easterbrook outlined the Crown's case to the jury.
Details and context
- The woman cannot be named for legal reasons and tearfully gave evidence describing the kisses and her immediate shock.
- She briefly went to the car park before deciding to report the incident, highlighting her confusion right after.
- Trial continues under Recorder Donald Tait; no verdict mentioned yet.
Key quotes
- "I wish we had met in different circumstances." – Dr Hassan Twins, as told by the patient.
- "He was holding my face. He kissed me on the lips. Not a peck but not a prolonged kiss. He pulled away slightly to look at me again, he leaned in again and held my face and kissed me once again." – The patient, to jurors.
Why it matters
- Allegations like this test trust in healthcare professionals and could prompt reviews of clinic safeguards.
- Patients may feel wary about personal interactions during medical visits, especially in urgent care.
- Watch the trial outcome at Southampton Crown Court, as it could set precedents for similar boundary cases.