Mr Gee went to Mr Baird following a second extraordinary meeting of Orange’s Medical Staff Council (MSC) on Monday night, which recorded a majority no confidence vote in hospital management and called for an administrator to be appointed while an independent investigation is carried out.

“For doctors to be moving motions like that means that this is extremely serious,” Mr Gee said yesterday.

“The whole thing is very concerning.

“Because of the strong public interest in what is unfolding at the hospital and also because there is a professional reputation at stake, I intend to now bring it to the attention of the Premier.”

Last week, Orange’s clinicians also held an extraordinary meeting to discuss the investigation of one of their colleagues who has been a visiting medical officer at Orange Health Service for 16 years.

Following that meeting and discussions with clinicians, Mr Gee wrote to Western Local Health District chief executive officer Scott McLachlan and NSW Health Minister Gillian Skinner passing on the concerns of doctors and asking for an explanation.

Mr Gee said yesterday no response has been received from either party.

Head of Orange’s MSC Dr Ruth Arnold said any news of an investigation into management’s handling of the investigation into the cardiologist would be welcome, and since Monday night’s meeting, the MSC has approached the board of the local health district to ask for a meeting to discuss clinicians’ concerns and look at ways in partnership with the board to achieve solutions.

“Doctors in Orange are always keen to work towards resolution of problems and maintaining high quality patient care and services remains our top priority,” Dr Arnold said.

“Any help we receive to work through the current issues with management is most welcome.”

Dr Arnold said the MSC wants to see the senior cardiologist under investigation reinstated to work at the hospital while any independent review is carried out.

janice.harris@fairfaxmedia.com.au