In a Wednesday morning interview on RTL Radio, Health Minister Martine Deprez defended the partial suspension of orthopaedic surgeon Dr Philippe Wilmes, stating the decision was taken to protect patients and was based solely on legal and medical recommendations.
The suspension, which prevents Dr Wilmes from performing surgeries for three months, was suggested by the Medical Board. Minister Deprez confirmed she first received files concerning the case in December. She cited multiple reports alleging the surgeon performed unnecessary procedures, such as operating on non-problematic cruciate ligaments.
“We applied the law and wanted to protect patients,” Deprez stated, emphasising the action was a precaution against “danger ahead.” She clarified that the suspension is specific to surgical interventions and does not question the doctor’s entire career. Dr Wilmes remains permitted to consult with patients and was given the opportunity to present his case to the ministry.
In a separate interview on RTL Télé on Tuesday evening, Dr Wilmes denied all allegations of wrongdoing. He pointed to his record of 5,500 surgeries since 2013, asserting every operation was medically necessary. He characterised the allegations as a “calculated attack” aimed at destroying his reputation.
Minister Deprez firmly rejected any suggestion of improper motives, stating that neither political considerations, Dr Wilmes’s involvement in the Findel Clinic project, nor his familial relation to Environment Minister Serge Wilmes influenced the decision.
She noted satisfaction at having clarified the “objective” basis for the suspension in a parliamentary committee, adding that the ministry did not publicly disclose the case. Deprez also dismissed an accusation of abuse of office levelled by Dr Wilmes in an open letter, confirming Prime Minister Luc Frieden is fully briefed and supports her.
The case will now proceed to an independent expert panel. The ministry and Dr Wilmes will each appoint one expert, who together will select a third. This panel has six weeks to deliver its assessment. Deprez added that the Medical Board continues its work and may release further information this week.
