A Toronto gynecologist is under investigation after years of complaints and a recent warning to 2,500 patients about infection risk.
More than 2,500 patients of Toronto gynecologist Dr. Esther Park were recently notified of an infection risk after Toronto Public Health revealed her office failed to properly sterilize tools. But for some former patients, this warning came far too late.
Rachael Millanta was one of several women who say they raised red flags about Park years earlier—only to feel ignored by the very institutions meant to protect them.
In 2021, Millanta filed a formal complaint with the College of Physicians and Surgeons of Ontario (CPSO), detailing what she described as an invasive, painful, and humiliating appointment. She said Dr. Park asked personal questions with the exam room door open, refused to provide proper draping, and conducted an internal exam without consent that left her bleeding. She also said she was prescribed medication without being told what it was for.
Millanta described the experience as traumatic and said she called her mother in tears. She submitted her complaint to the CPSO immediately afterward.
Regulator Acknowledged Prior Complaints
The CPSO responded months later, noting that Park denied many of Millanta’s claims but issued “advice” to the doctor on professional communication, sensitivity, and proper documentation. The College also noted Park had a history of similar complaints from other patients who reported feeling rushed or uninformed.
Despite this, Park continued practicing—and it wasn’t until late 2024 that her license was formally restricted. In March 2025, CBC reported the discovery of improper cleaning protocols in Park’s office, putting thousands of patients at risk of infection. The clinic has since announced it will close in April, and Park has not publicly commented.
More Patients Speak Out
Sandra Cole, another former patient, stood outside Park’s office with a protest sign this month. She has been speaking with dozens of others on social media who now say they too experienced unprofessional or unsafe care.
“We need to start exposing these doctors and the College’s lack of accountability,”
Cole said.
CBC Toronto asked the CPSO how many complaints had been made against Park, but the College declined to provide a number, citing confidentiality rules. However, it confirmed that investigations can continue even after a doctor retires or leaves the profession.
What Legal Options Do Patients Have?
For patients who feel regulatory bodies have failed them, legal action may be an option.
Kristina Maitland, a medical malpractice lawyer at Neinstein Personal Injury Lawyers LLP, says lawsuits can provide more direct accountability and compensation. Maitland added that it’s critical for patients to get legal advice early to avoid missing limitation deadline, further stating that
“A lawsuit can sometimes be a better option because it focuses on the specific damage suffered by the plaintiff.”
While Toronto Public Health confirmed the infection control issues have since been resolved, the psychological impact on patients like Millanta remains.
“It was without question the most traumatic experience I’ve had with any medical professional—possibly anyone at all,”
Maitland commented.
As more patients come forward, the case raises broader concerns about how medical complaints are handled, and what safeguards exist to protect patients from harm that may have been preventable.
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FromCBC News