A psychiatrist who Canberra patients accused of going "AWOL" has been suspended from practising in Australia.
Matthew Peter Sellen, 44, left Canberra in March 2023.
Patients said they were not given notice, and claimed his departure put their lives into disarray.
Many relied on Sellen for attention deficit hyperactive disorder medication and reports.
Several complained to the Australian Health Practitioner Regulation Agency (Ahpra), saying they were unable to get in touch with the psychiatrist.
Former staff members also spoke to The Canberra Times, describing Sellen's practice as disorganised.
Sellen moved to Queensland and was practising at Toowong Specialist Clinic in Brisbane under conditions imposed by Ahpra.
Ahpra confirmed Sellen was suspended from practising as a psychiatrist on July 15.
A spokesperson for Ahpra and National Boards said: "National Boards have the power to take immediate action to suspend a practitioner or otherwise restrict their practice if it reasonably believes a practitioner's behaviour, performance or health poses a serious risk to public health or safety.
"Boards may also take immediate action to suspend a practitioner or otherwise restrict their practice if it is in the public interest such as when a practitioner is charged with a serious criminal offence.
"[It] is always an interim action while the board continues its investigation."
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Do you know more? Contact lanie.tindale@canberratimes.com.au.
