Epworth HealthCare has appointed the independent expert panel to review its clinical governance arrangements following concerns raised by patients of Dr Simon Gordon while he practised at Epworth.
The panel brings together leading clinicians, health system leaders and women with lived experience of endometriosis.
The independent review, which was immediately announced following claims about Dr Gordon's practice, will examine Epworth's clinical governance arrangements with a focus on gynaecological services, including how doctors are credentialled, how concerns raised by patients and staff are addressed, and how clinical practice is overseen.
The terms of reference were developed with and are endorsed by Safer Care Victoria. The panel will engage with clinicians, staff and patients as part of its assessment.
The review panel comprises independent members:
- Professor Keith McNeil (Chair, South Australia) - a nationally respected health system leader and Commissioner and CEO of the Commission on Excellence and Innovation at South Australia Health, with deep expertise in clinical governance and system reform.
- Professor Beverley Vollenhoven (Victoria, nominated by Safer Care Victoria) – a leading gynaecologist and internationally recognised expert in women's health and endometriosis care.
- Professor Alan Lam (New South Wales) – an experienced senior clinician with extensive expertise in surgical practice, clinical governance and medical leadership.
- The panel also includes two consumer advocates with lived experience in women's health including endometriosis, bringing patient perspective directly into the review.
The panel will seek advice from Women's Health Victoria to support the inclusion of lived experience in the review.
Epworth is also writing to former patients of Dr Gordon while he practised at Epworth. The letter provides former patients with information about support available to them including access to their medical records at no cost and connects them to services and independent channels for raising concerns.
Epworth Group Chief Executive Professor Andrew Stripp said the concerns raised about Dr Gordon were deeply upsetting.
"We have taken the time to ensure the right independent expertise is in place to undertake this review. It will examine how our governance systems are working today and whether there are areas we can strengthen. We will release the findings publicly and act on the recommendations."
"The purpose of healthcare is to support people at some of the most vulnerable moments in their lives."
"I recognise that the recent reporting has been distressing for many patients and their families, and I am sorry for the worry and uncertainty this has caused."
"The pain, loss and anger being expressed is deeply confronting, and it is something I take very seriously."
"Since taking on this role, my focus has been on strengthening how we respond when issues are identified and ensuring our systems support safe, high-quality care."
Epworth referred concerns about Dr Gordon to the Australian Health Practitioner Regulation Agency (Ahpra) in October 2025 and has since been cooperating with Ahpra, Safer Care Victoria and the Victorian Government.
Support for former patients
Epworth understands that former patients of Dr Gordon may have questions and concerns. Support continues to be available for those who wish to:
- speak with someone to talk through questions they may have
- access their medical records at no cost
- discuss options for accessing a second opinion or ongoing specialist care
Former patients can contact Epworth at [email protected]
