4 Common Examples of Sexual Abuse by Doctors and What You Can Do to Seek Justice

When we seek medical care, we put our trust in doctors to act professionally, ethically, and with our well-being in mind. It can have devastating physical and emotional consequences for victims. Tragically, some medical professionals exploit their power and commit sexual abuse, leaving patients feeling betrayed and traumatized. Sexual abuse by a medical professional is a profound betrayal of trust.

No one should suffer in silence. If you or a loved one has experienced such abuse, know that support is available, and there are steps you can take to hold perpetrators accountable.

Below, we outline four examples of how sexual abuse by doctors may occur, along with guidance on how victims can seek help.

1. Unnecessary or Invasive Physical Examinations

One of the most common forms of sexual abuse in medical settings occurs when doctors perform physical exams that are unnecessary, overly invasive, or unrelated to a patient’s medical concerns.

For instance, a patient might visit a doctor for a routine check-up only to endure an invasive exam that had no medical purpose. This can be confusing and distressing for patients, especially when the doctor misrepresents the exam as essential.

2. Inappropriate Comments or Personal Questions

In some cases, doctors make inappropriate comments or ask highly personal, irrelevant questions that make patients feel uncomfortable or even unsafe. These comments may seem subtle at first but can escalate into more explicit behavior if not addressed.

For example, a doctor might ask a patient personal questions about their intimate life or make suggestive comments about their appearance during a routine exam.

3. Use of Sedatives or Anesthesia to Facilitate Abuse

Some cases involve doctors administering sedatives or anesthesia to take advantage of patients while they’re incapacitated. Patients may wake up feeling disoriented and unsure if they experienced abuse, which can make reporting it more challenging.

One example is a case where a patient received sedatives for a minor procedure and later suspected that something inappropriate had happened while they were under the doctor’s care.

4. Unauthorized Recording or Photography

With technology now an integral part of healthcare, some doctors misuse it to record or photograph patients without their consent. This can occur under the pretense of medical documentation but is a violation of privacy and trust.

An example might be a doctor who takes photos during an exam without clearly explaining their necessity or obtaining explicit consent.

How to Seek Justice

Experiencing sexual abuse from a trusted medical provider is a uniquely challenging and traumatic experience, but help is available. If a survivor has bravely chosen to find closure, there are many paths they can walk down to find closure. Here’s how you can take action to hold perpetrators accountable:

1. Seek Support

After experiencing abuse, it’s essential to talk with someone you trust, whether that’s a friend, family member, or therapist. There are also sexual assault resources and hotlines you can lean on for help. Support can help you process the experience and consider your next steps.

2. Document Your Experience

Write down the details of what happened, including dates, times, and descriptions of the doctor’s behavior. This documentation can be vital if you choose to take legal action.

3. File a Complaint

Many states allow patients to report doctors directly to the state medical board, which can lead to investigations and disciplinary action. Reporting the abuse helps prevent future incidents and protects other patients.

4. Consult a Lawyer

Sexual abuse cases involving doctors can be complex, but with the support of an experienced attorney, you can pursue justice and obtain compensation for the harm you’ve endured. A qualified lawyer can provide compassionate guidance, explain your options, and advocate for you.

Take the Next Step Toward Justice

No one should have to endure sexual abuse from a healthcare provider, and if it has happened to you or a loved one, justice is possible. Hurley McKenna & Mertz is committed to supporting survivors of abuse, helping them hold perpetrators accountable and secure the resources they need to move forward.

If you’ve been affected, contact us today for a confidential consultation. We’re here to listen, guide, and fight for your rights.