Pediatrician Emmanuel J. Francois of Irvington has agreed to a temporary suspension while the state investigates.
TRENTON -- An Irvington pediatrician has agreed to stop practicing medicine temporarily after inspections revealed he had left used syringes in examination rooms, mishandled blood vials, and failed to routinely wash his hands or wear gloves, Attorney General Christopher Porrino announced Friday.
Emmanuel J. Francois of the Washington Avenue Pediatric Center "presents a clear and imminent danger to the public," according to the Board of Medical Examiners, the state's licensing and disciplinary board.
Calls to Francois and his lawyer John P. Dell'Italia in West Orange were not returned Friday afternoon.
A routine inspection by the Department of Health in June revealed "extreme uncleanliness of office, improper disposal of bio hazardous materials" and problems in "storage and handling of vaccines," according to Porrino's announcement.
Health inspectors found improperly labeled vials of blood inside drawers and closets with other supplies, and open syringes in exam and room storage rooms. An unlabeled stool sample found in the refrigerator, Porrino's announcement said.
A follow-up visit by the health department and the state Division of Consumer Affairs on Aug. 12 found the doctor "did not wear protective gloves while treating patients, and did not wash his hands or use hand sanitizers before or after each patient visit, Porrino statement said.
Doctor accused of groping suspended
"We allege that Dr. Francois' lack of hygiene, coupled with the unsanitary conditions found throughout his office, cries out that he is incapable of carrying out the duty of a pediatric physician consistent with the public health, safety and welfare," Consumer Affairs Director Steve Lee said. "Faced with these serious allegations against Dr. Francois, the Board acted appropriately to make certain that patients are not put in harm's way."
The board will hold a hearing to determine the future of Francois' license.
Families who have seen the doctor and have questions or need copies of their medical records may call consumer affairs at 973-504-6240.
Consumers may file an online complaint with the State Division of Consumer Affairs by visiting its website.
Susan K. Livio may be reached at slivio@njadvancemedia.com. Follow her on Twitter @SusanKLivio. Find NJ.com Politics on Facebook.