‘Sex attack’ victim of GP urges others to speak out Doctor killed himself after allegations from patients
ATHIRD alleged victim of a Birmingham GP who killed himself after being told he faced a police investigation has urged others to speak out.
Dr Philip Schuppler, 58, took his own life on November 1, hours after being told of two complaints made by former patients.
Officers found him dead at his Solihull flat. He had taken a heroin overdose.
The NHS is co-operating with police and has urged anyone with complaints about the doctor to contact the surgery, police, or an NHS helpline.
The first alleged victim came forward in September to report she had been assaulted in 1995 at his Acocks Green surgery. A second woman later told officers she had been abused by the GP, a partner at Swanswell Medical Centre.
A third alleged victim met police at the weekend.
She said: “It was 20 years ago and I was supposed to have a routine internal examination. It lasted for around 30 seconds, which might not sound long, but it is when it happens to you. I had the exact same examination at hospital and it lasted just a with few seconds. I knew deep down that what he did to me was not right.
“I had heard rumours he had suffered a heart attack, but I had no idea he had committed suicide.”
The victim said she never reported the incident to NHS bosses or to police.
She added: “I only discovered that he had died and about the allegations because my son forwarded me the article about the inquest.
“The one thing that has annoyed
I knew deep down that what he did to me was not right
me is the anger that has been directed towards victims who have come forward so far.
“He may well have been wellrespected, but I believe other things were going on behind closed doors that nobody knows about.
“I have arranged to speak to police. I know he is dead and buried, but I think it’s important that people speak out about what happened to them.”
The first woman to come forward spoke to the Post of her alleged abuse after learning of the doctor’s death.
She said she was assaulted nearly 22 years ago and believes there may well be other victims, who will now come forward.
She said: “Looking back, I know I was incredibly vulnerable and it’s clear he exploited that. That’s what people like him do. They seek out opportunities. “It’s as though he had me trapped. “When I was told about his death I was very upset for his family, but I feel like he has now taken my voice away for a second time.”
A spokeswoman for NHS England said: “Patient safety is paramount for NHS England and any concerns or allegations are taken seriously. We would support the police in any way and co-operate fully with any investigation.
“In addition, if patients have any concerns they can discuss them with one of the GPs at their practice who should then investigate and take appropriate action.
“Alternatively, patients can contact the NHS England Contact Centre on 0300 311 22 33 or can email england.contactus@nhs.net.
“West Midlands Police has agreed to make NHS England aware of any further allegations relating to this case. West Midlands Police can also refer anybody affected to appropriate support agencies.”
Alleged victim