Indian-origin physician Dr. Suman Khulbe has had her medical licence revoked by the College of Physicians and Surgeons of Ontario (CPSO) after being found guilty of sexual abuse and professional boundary violations with patients in Canada.
The disciplinary tribunal revealed that Khulbe engaged in sexual acts with one male patient and maintained inappropriate personal and business relationships with two others. The hearing led to the suspension of her licence effective August 23, 2025, while Khulbe plans to appeal the decision, asserting some facts were omitted during the process.
Sexual Misconduct and Abuse Allegations
The tribunal case highlighted serious allegations including sexual misconduct with a male gym trainer who sought treatment from Khulbe starting in 2015. Initial vitamin therapy sessions shifted to physical therapy and were reported to have escalated into sexual acts, including oral sex, kissing, and manual stimulation.
The patient alleged that these encounters often occurred while he was under the influence of procaine, a local anaesthetic administered by Khulbe, which made him feel anxious, euphoric, and not in full control of his faculties. Further complicating the doctor-patient relationship, Khulbe reportedly involved the patient in discussions of a joint business venture and held social gatherings at her clinic where alcohol was served.
Professional Boundaries Blurred
The tribunal also uncovered that Khulbe maintained deep personal relationships with other patients, sometimes professing love while continuing medical treatment. She engaged in business partnerships with two patients, blurring professional lines and violating codes of medical ethics that demand clear boundaries between doctors and patients.
The disciplinary panel noted her failure to treat patients solely as patients, instead viewing them as friends, social acquaintances, athletic companions, and business partners. The CPSO has a strict zero-tolerance stance on any sexual conduct between doctors and patients, irrespective of consent claims.
Career Background and Appeal
Starting her medical career as a family physician in 2001, Khulbe shifted in 2018 to a private executive holistic practice focusing on regenerative medicine, peptide therapy, and anti-ageing treatments. Despite the licence revocation, Khulbe has publicly denied wrongdoing beyond claiming a consensual relationship with the gym trainer.
She stated that many crucial facts were omitted and expressed intent to appeal the disciplinary ruling. Khulbe also mentioned that attending the hearing came at great financial and personal cost to herself and her family.
The Logical Indian’s Perspective
This case is a grave reminder of the essential need for trust, ethics, and professionalism in healthcare relationships. Patients must feel safe and respected, and any violation of these boundaries must be addressed decisively. While Khulbe has a right to appeal, the importance lies in protecting those vulnerable to exploitation.
