College of Physicians and Surgeons of British Columbia
300–669 Howe Street Telephone: 604-733-7758
Vancouver BC V6C 0B4 Toll Free: 1-800-461-3008 (in BC)
www.cpsbc.ca Fax: 604-733-3503
Serving the public through excellence and professionalism in medical practice

MEDIA RELEASE – January 7, 2014
Dr. HARDIN, Earl David Vancouver, BC

When reporting this release, please provide the name and location of the physician in full in order to avoid confusion with any other physician who may have a similar name or initials.

VANCOUVER, BC: Dr. Earl David Hardin, a psychiatrist, has admitted to engaging in unprofessional conduct by using touch (such as hand-holding, hugging and farewell kisses) as a therapeutic approach during counselling sessions with a patient between 1969 and 2009. Further, Dr. Hardin failed to adequately maintain records of counselling sessions with the patient in accordance with the requirements of section 3-5 of the College Bylaws.
Following the issuance of a disciplinary citation, Dr. Hardin consented to the following disposition by the College:

(a) transfer from the Full class of registration to the Conditional – Disciplined class of registration;
(b) a formal reprimand;
(c) a three month suspension from practice effective January 1, 2014, with two months stayed if conditions are met;
(d) completion of a multidisciplinary assessment program;
(e) participation in continuing medical education in ethics and professionalism;
(f) attendance for an interview at the College to discuss the conduct admitted, his current understanding of and insight into ethical and professional issues, the assessment(s)/counselling conducted, and to allow the College to further assess and determine the limits and conditions of Dr. Hardin’s registration;
(g) costs in the amount of two thousand dollars ($2,000);

(h) compliance with any monitoring of his practice established and acceptable to the College.

Dr. Hardin’s future professional conduct must be beyond reproach in every aspect.
The College of Physicians and Surgeons is the licensing and regulatory body for all physicians and surgeons in the province. Governed by provincial legislation, the College’s role is to protect the public by establishing, monitoring and enforcing high standards of qualification and ethical practice across the province.

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Media inquiries:
Communications Department communications@cpsbc.ca