Controversial Gynecologist Returns to Practice in Lisbon Despite Past Convictions

Shocking Comeback of a Convicted Gynecologist

Valério Saraiva de Carvalho, a 59-year-old gynecologist, has made headlines once again as he returns to practicing medicine in Lisbon despite a troubling history of sexual abuse. In 2009, he was convicted for inappropriately touching two women during consultations at Hospital S. Francisco Xavier. Although he received a suspended sentence of five months, the Order of Doctors attempted to impose a six-month suspension, which ultimately failed, allowing him to continue working in central Lisbon.

In 2017, he was involved in another incident where he abused a young woman of Chinese descent during a consultation. This led to a four-year prison sentence handed down in 2022. Despite these serious allegations and convictions, the doctor has consistently denied the accusations and has appealed the court's decision, all while maintaining his practice.

The Court of Appeal upheld his sentence, but the final decision from the Constitutional Court is still awaited, raising questions about the safety and ethics of allowing a convicted sexual offender to continue practicing medicine. This case has sparked outrage and concern among the public and health professionals alike, as it highlights significant gaps in the system that allows such individuals to operate unchecked.