Mackay, Queensland – October 27, 2025 – A Queensland hospital chief medical officer has returned to work after a 14-month suspension sparked by allegations of poor clinical governance. The return of dr. Charles Pain to his role at the Mackay Hospital and Health Service (MHHS) follows a complete examination that found no wrongdoing, raising questions about the length and basis of the suspension.
Suspension Lifted After Lengthy Investigation
dr.Pain was cleared of all allegations after an external review deemed his actions “appropriate,transparent,and reasonable.”
- Dr.Pain was suspended from his position on September 28,2024.
- The suspension stemmed from a complaint made while Dr. Pain was on sick leave.
- An external investigation found no adverse findings against dr. Pain.
- The Australian salaried Medical Officers’ Federation Queensland (ASMOFQ) has called for a review of the suspension process.
Dr. Pain resumed his duties on Monday, October 27, 2025, after being sidelined for over a year. The initial suspension, revealed by reports in October 2024, originated from a complaint lodged by a contracted physician while Dr. Pain was on medical leave in 2024. The investigation ultimately determined that Dr. Pain acted appropriately, and no adverse findings were made against him. This swift resolution to the matter underscores the importance of due process in addressing concerns within the healthcare system.
Sean Birgan became the interim chief executive of the Mackay Hospital and Health Service in October last year.
Calls for openness and Accountability
The Australian Salaried Medical Officers’ Federation Queensland (ASMOFQ) also voiced its support for Dr. PainS reinstatement. While welcoming his return, the organization has called for a thorough review of the circumstances surrounding his suspension. ASMOFQ argues that such a review is crucial “to ensure the appropriate use of executive powers and accountability to the community, including the proper use of public funds and resources.”
QIRC documents reveal that Dr. Pain continued to receive his full salary throughout the 14-month suspension period. Furthermore, the MHHS incurred $321,000 in expenses during the 2024-25 financial year to cover the costs of two doctors who temporarily filled the CMO role during Dr. Pain’s absence.ASMOFQ emphasized the need for “clearer guidelines and greater transparency” regarding suspensions, notably those of extended duration.
