Littlehampton doctor denies kissing patient during hospital appointment

A doctor from Littlehampton has gone on trial accused of kissing a patient twice on the lips during a medical appointment at a hospital in Southampton.

Southampton Crown Court heard that the woman, who cannot be named for legal reasons, attended an urgent treatment centre at the Royal South Hants Hospital after experiencing worsening stomach pain. Prosecutors said that after the consultation, as she was preparing to leave, the doctor allegedly called her back, held her face and kissed her twice. The patient told the court she was left in shock and initially left the clinic before returning to report the incident to staff.

The court was also told the doctor had asked personal questions during the appointment and hugged the patient, which caused her distress. After reporting the incident to the clinic, the woman also reported the incident to police. The defendant, who denies sexual assault, is standing trial before Recorder Donald Tait. Proceedings are ongoing.