Trial of ex-Kitchener neurologist continues as expert outlines standards for exams
Dr. Vera Bril was qualified as an expert to speak on the matter on Wednesday
Warning: This story contains some graphic details.
The trial of former Kitchener, Ont. neurologist Jeffrey Sloka continued at the Waterloo Region Courthouse on Wednesday, when a medical expert reviewed the standards for neurological exams.
Sloka is facing 50 counts of sexual assault in connection to incidents dating back to 2010. The age of the alleged victims, who were patients seeking treatment, ranged from those in their teens to their fifties.
He allegedly asked patients to undress so he could perform a physical or skin examination. It's alleged he touched his patients' breasts and in some instances, inserted his fingers inside of them.
Sloka has pleaded not guilty to all counts.
Dr. Vera Bril, a neurologist who detailed her professional history through a 37-page long resume, told the courtroom which standards are required to be followed during neurological exams, and went through the details of such procedures.
Bril discussed instances when physical contact could be made, appropriate attire for neurological exams, as well as the role of chaperones.
Meanwhile, Sloka appeared in a dark suit and wore a blue facemask for the entire duration of the hearing, and largely remained silent.
Consent in neurology
Bril explained that during a neurological exam, there isn't explicit consent expected, but rather inferred consent where the physician describes what they're about to do step-by-step as they're doing it.
When it comes to a more sensitive exam, looking at areas such as breasts, rectum or vagina, Bril said that the standards are higher: Consent needs to be direct, with the physician outlining what they're planning to do and why.
For those sensitive exams, all the details need to be documented in the consultation letter that goes back to the referral doctor. However, Bril said that these types of exams aren't typical in neurology.
"Neurologists don't do breast exams and they don't do vaginals," she said.
Sloka had a primary practice at Grand River Hospital but also had privileges at Guelph General Hospital and St Mary's General Hospital in Kitchener.
He was put under restrictions in September 2017 due to the accusations. He was then stripped of his licence in May 2019 and arrested four months later in September.
Police announced multiple sets of charges against Sloka and by June 17, he faced 76 offences in connection with separate sexual assaults against women in Waterloo region. However, several charges were withdrawn at the request of the Crown.
The trial continues on Thursday.
Read more about this trial and events leading up to it through CBC's coverage here:
- Kitchener neurologist faces hearing over sexual abuse accusations
- Former Kitchener neurologist stripped of licence after patients sexually assaulted
- Former Kitchener, Ont., neurologist charged with 34 counts of sexual assault
- Former Kitchener neurologist faces new sexual assault charges
- Woman sues former Kitchener neurologist accused of sexually assaulting 63 patients
- Waterloo Regional Police lay 8 more sexual assault charges on former neurologist
- Trial of former Kitchener neurologist opens with summary of years of alleged sexual assaults
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With files from Paula Duhatschek