Physician sexual abuse and assault is a despicable violation of patient/physician trust, and both the individual medical professional and institutions that employed them should be held accountable. In recent months, at least 150 former patients have filed lawsuits against Massachusetts Rheumatologist, Dr. Derrick Todd, and the institutions that employed him and failed to protect patients. The claims allege that the former Brigham & Women’s physician subjected patients to “predatory grooming, boundary violating, mental, emotional, and physical sexual abuse” that took the form of medically unnecessary pelvic, breast, and rectal exams. The claims also state that he made inappropriate comments, asked unnecessary sexual questions, texted patients, and met with them outside of normal working hours.
The emotional and psychological trauma of sexual abuse can take an immense toll on your overall health and wellbeing. While these conversations are incredibly difficult, if you think you may have been a victim of Dr. Todd, you’re not alone, and we’re here to help.
The History of Dr. Todd’s Sexual Abuse
Dr. Todd was a well-known rheumatologist who practiced throughout Massachusetts, treating rare autoimmune conditions. While Dr. Todd primarily practiced as the Chief of Clinical Rheumatology at Brigham & Women’s Faulkner Hospital in Boston, he is known to have practiced at the following institutions:
- Brigham and Women’s Faulkner Hospital in Boston (July 2009 – July 2023)
- Charles River Medical Associates in Framingham (August 2010 – July 2023)
- Lahey Hospital and Medical Center in Burlington (July 2006 – June 2009)
- Massachusetts General Hospital in Boston (July 2003 – June 2005)
After two colleagues anonymously reported him, he was placed on administrative leave in June 2023 from Brigham & Women’s and subsequently fired. The Massachusetts Board of Registration in Medicine was notified of his misconduct, and he signed a voluntary agreement not to practice medicine in September 2023. The news of his alleged misconduct broke in October 2023.
Dr. Todd is currently being investigated by the Suffolk County district attorney and the Boston Police Department for the allegations of sexual abuse. While these investigations may result in eventual criminal charges or penalties for Dr. Todd, they will not address the liability of the institutions that allowed him to practice or provide survivors with meaningful compensation.
Do I Have a Case?
You may have a case if you were a patient of Dr. Todd’s and experienced sexual assault or harassment. We’re committed to supporting you through this challenging time, and will work tirelessly to get you the justice you deserve.
Fighting for Victims of Physician Sexual Abuse
Learning that you’ve been sexually assaulted or abused can be overwhelming, and choosing to report the individual and potentially file a lawsuit is a challenging step to take. The team at Parker Scheer is ready to guide you through this difficult process and be a listening ear. Your confidentiality and privacy through this is our priority, and we are committed to supporting you in every way possible. We are your advocate, and will work tirelessly to hold both Dr. Todd and any other responsible parties accountable for any harm done to you. Call us today at (866) 335-4787 to speak with a trusted, local attorney about your experience.
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