Doctor at St. Lawrence Psychiatric Center Under Investigation by Office of Professional Misconduct

ALBANY, N.Y. - Jan. 13, 2025 - PRLog -- Ogdensburg, NY – The Office of Professional Misconduct is investigating allegations of negligence and malpractice involving locum physician Albert Saez at St. Lawrence Psychiatric Center. Concerns raised by a family highlight several serious violations of patient rights and treatment protocols, resulting in serious harm to the patient's mental and physical health.

The complaints center on the use of inappropriate medications, failure to address physical health concerns, lack of informed consent, and inadequate communication regarding treatment plans. The family alleges that alternative treatment options were ignored despite evidence of their effectiveness and that the patient's health has deteriorated significantly under the current care regimen.

Key issues in the complaint include:

Failure to Provide Least Restrictive Care: Allegations that treatment options were overly restrictive and did not comply with state requirements.

Informed Consent Violations: Claims that medication risks and potential side effects were not adequately explained. Family alleges doctor administered additional medication mixed in with vitamins of the patient and did not inform the patient.

Neglect of Physical Health: Reports of severe symptoms being overlooked including difficulty breathing and other serious health concerns. The patient has also been denied emergency services.

Inappropriate Medication Administration: Allegations that medications were prescribed or administered without proper disclosure or consent.

Inappropriate Interactions: Allegations include that the doctor never met with the patient in a clinical setting, opting instead to visit during lunchtime. The patient subsequently reported feeling intimidated and brainwashed. Despite raising these concerns, no action was taken to address an of the issues.

The family further alleges that efforts to advocate for alternative care or seek second opinions have been dismissed, compounding the patient's declining condition.

The facility is now seeking to petition the court to mandate that the patient remain on the same medication prescribed by a doctor currently under active investigation. Despite legal requirements for family involvement, the family reports receiving no further communication. They strongly oppose this action and are raising significant concerns about the quality of care and compliance with medical and ethical standards. Additionally, the family alleges that staff members have come forward claiming they were instructed to falsify the patient's health status and medical records.

The family is calling for immediate action to ensure patient safety and compliance with medical standards. They also urge broader oversight to address systemic issues that may contribute to similar incidents in the future.

The Office of Professional Misconduct has confirmed that an investigation is underway, with further details to be released as available.

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