Dr Stephen Parnis has stepped down as MIGA chair after reported internal response to social media comments.
There has been a shakeup in the board of the Medical Insurance Group of Australia (MIGA), with Dr Stephan Parnis announcing via email that he would be forfeiting his position as a chair.
The high-profile emergency physician and former AMA vice president is reportedly resigning in response to internal concerns over statements made on social media opposing the conflict in Gaza.
Dr Parnis has stated that he will continue as a director of the board with Professor Owen Ung to step in as acting chair.
Per Dr Parnis’ email, MIGA will also enact a review on its social media policy to align its governance and contemporary expectations with both its representatives and members.
“As a broad and diverse member organisation, MIGA respects the rights of all individuals to hold and express personal and differing views,” Dr Parnis said in the email.
“As Chair of MIGA, I have highly valued this right among our membership, but am also aware that in this climate of heightened tensions, such commentary may cause division.
Related
“I have exercised my right as an individual to comment on matters in the public domain based on my own views and conscience.
“At no time have I purported to represent these interests on behalf of MIGA and its members, however, I consider it prudent to step down from my role as chair of the board.”
Both Dr Parnis and MIGA were unavailable for comment before publication deadline.
“We support, represent, and advocate for all of our members – regardless of race or culture, religion, age, gender or sexuality – to ensure they can practise safely and confidently, and deliver quality care to the community,” MIGA said in a statement.
“As a broad and diverse member organisation, Miga respects the rights of all of our members to hold and express personal and differing views.”
