ADDICT DOCTOR PRACTISING AGAIN

HAMILTON -- A Waikato doctor who last year admitted fraudulently using
prescription forms to feed his drug addiction is practising again but must
submit to regular drugs testing.

Dr Maldev Keshvara has returned to work at Huntly West Medical Centre after
three months voluntary leave.

He was given a suspended sentence in the Hamilton District Court in
November last year after fraudulently using prescription forms belonging to
his colleague to collect morphine and pethidine.

Medical Council spokeswoman Susan Pattullo said he had received treatment
for his addiction.

"Dr Keshvara has an acknowledged addiction for which he has received
specialised treatment and which is ongoing. His health is being monitored
closely by the council's health committee, including urine screening," Ms
Patullo said. Dr Keshvara is not allowed to prescribe opiates and will not
have access to opiates at his practice.

Ms Patullo said the committee was satisfied his patients were not at risk
provided he continued treatment.

"From our long experience managing doctors with health problems, so long as
we are satisfied patients are safe a doctor can practise while his or her
rehabilitation continues," Ms Pattullo said.

If Dr Keshvara breached his agreement with the Medical Council to continue
treatment, his hours could be restricted or he could be made to work with a
chaperone.

Dr Keshvara refused to comment on his case except to thank his friends and
colleagues for their support.