Anti-vax doctor issued COVID-19 vaccine exemptions for conditions that didn’t exist – Newshub

The Health and Disability Commissioner has found a former Christchurch GP issued more than 280 COVID-19 vaccine exemptions for supposed medical conditions that in some cases didn't exist.

Dr Jonie Girouard was first exposed during a Newshub investigation back in 2021.

Now, a new investigation has found she also misrepresented the COVID-19 vaccine to paying patients.

This is what Newshub caught on camera during the height of the pandemic - Dr Jonie Girouard holding court in her Christchurch clinic.

"You're here because you're not crazy about being vaccinated? Right, well you're in the right spot!" she was filmed saying.

On offer? $80 exemptions, which weren't legally binding, supposedly issued on medical grounds.

"Instead, what we're trying to do is give a medical certificate saying that you've been assessed and it's not appropriate for you to receive the current vaccine," she said on camera.

Back in 2021, our hidden camera revealed how easy it was - a few questions, and minimal tests.

The commissioner's report reveals Dr Girouard issued 282 medical certificates to patients regarding the COVID-19 vaccine.

The problem? They stated the vaccine was unsuitable for the holder based on medical conditions when there were no medical conditions.

Dr Girouard was also meant to be vaccinated to see patients - but she wasn't.

The report reveals more. Dr Girouard failed to provide evidence-based information about the vaccine to patients.

"I mean, really, this is horrible, horrible medicine," she was filmed saying.

Dr Girouard is deregistered and left New Zealand. The Health and Disability Commissioner says her competence should be reviewed if she ever returns here to practice.

Originally posted here:

Anti-vax doctor issued COVID-19 vaccine exemptions for conditions that didn't exist - Newshub