How to Report Doctors’ Sexual Abuse When you visit a doctor, you expect to be treated with professionalism, respect, and care. But for some patients, the doctor-patient relationship is violated in the most serious and damaging way—through sexual abuse. Sexual misconduct by healthcare professionals is a deeply harmful betrayal of trust that can leave long-lasting emotional, psychological, and physical consequences. If you or someone you love has experienced sexual abuse by a doctor or other medical provider, you may be wondering what to do next. Reporting the abuse can be an overwhelming and emotional process, but it is also an important step toward accountability and, in many cases, personal healing. This article outlines how to report doctors’ sexual abuse, what types of misconduct may qualify, and what options are available if you’re unsure whether to come forward. Speak with a compassionate doctor sexual abuse and assault attorney now in a free consultation to learn about your options. Schedule a Free Confidential Consultation What Counts as Sexual Abuse by a Doctor? Sexual abuse by a doctor can take many forms. It is not limited to physical contact—abuse can also include verbal harassment, boundary violations, or the use of authority to coerce or manipulate a patient into sexual behavior. Here are some examples that may constitute sexual abuse or misconduct by a doctor: Unnecessary or non-consensual physical exams involving breasts, genitals, or other private areas Sexual comments or suggestive language during a medical appointment Examinations without a chaperone, especially when one should be present Inappropriate touching, hugging, or stroking Requests to undress without medical justification Use of medication or sedation to facilitate abuse or reduce memory of the encounter Attempts to initiate personal or sexual relationships with patients Taking photos or videos without consent Pressuring or coercing a patient into sexual activity under the guise of medical necessity Any sexual contact between a doctor and a patient is widely considered unethical and, in many cases, illegal, especially when there is a clear power imbalance and lack of consent. Immediate Steps to Take If You’ve Been Abused If you believe you’ve been sexually abused by a doctor, it’s important to prioritize your safety and well-being. Here are some steps to consider: 1. Find a Safe Support System Whether it’s a friend, family member, therapist, or support group, having someone to talk to can help you process what happened. Abuse by a healthcare provider can cause shame, confusion, and isolation—none of which are your fault. 2. Seek Medical or Mental Health Care (If You Feel Safe Doing So) If the abuse resulted in physical injury or distress, seek medical care from a trusted provider. It’s okay to ask for a chaperone during appointments and to set boundaries about who treats you. Mental health professionals can also provide critical support, especially those trained in trauma-informed care. 3. Write Down What Happened If you feel able, write down everything you remember about the incident, including: The date, time, and location What was said and done Any witnesses or staff present How you felt during and after the encounter This documentation can help later if you decide to report the abuse. How to Report Sexual Abuse by a Doctor Reporting abuse can help prevent future harm and hold the responsible party accountable. You can make a report through one or more of the following channels: 1. Report to Law Enforcement If you believe a crime occurred—such as sexual assault or battery—you have the right to contact the police. In Florida and many other states, law enforcement takes reports of abuse by doctors seriously. An officer or detective may take your statement, open an investigation, and, in some cases, file charges. It's up to you whether to file a report immediately or wait. You may also ask if a victim advocate is available to support you through the process. 2. Report to the State Medical Board Each state has a medical board or licensing authority that regulates doctors and investigates complaints of misconduct. In Florida, you can report a doctor to the Florida Department of Health through the Division of Medical Quality Assurance. The board reviews complaints and may: Launch an investigation Suspend or revoke a medical license Impose disciplinary actions or fines Here’s how to file a report in Florida: Visit: www.flhealthcomplaint.gov Call the Florida Department of Health at 1-877-HALT-ABUSE (1-877-425-8228) Submit supporting documents, if available (e.g., appointment records, texts, witness names) Your identity can often be kept confidential during the investigation. 3. Report to the Hospital, Clinic, or Healthcare Facility If the abuse happened in a hospital or clinic setting, you can file a formal complaint with the institution. Most have a patient advocate, ombudsman, or compliance department that handles misconduct. Facilities are legally and ethically obligated to take complaints seriously, particularly those involving potential criminal or professional violations. They may also be required to report the incident to the state medical board or other oversight agencies. 4. Report to Your Insurance Company Some survivors report the abuse to their health insurance company, especially if the provider was in-network or billing fraud was involved. While this isn’t a required step, insurers may flag or investigate suspicious activity and may be able to assist in gathering records. What If You’re Not Sure It Was Abuse? Many patients aren’t sure whether what happened “counts” as abuse. Doctors hold a position of authority, and it can be difficult to know whether a procedure or behavior was inappropriate. Some signs that the behavior may have crossed a line: You felt violated, confused, or humiliated You were alone in a room when you shouldn't have been The doctor dismissed your concerns or tried to “explain away” inappropriate behavior You weren’t given a chance to say no or stop what was happening Your instincts told you something wasn’t right It’s okay to trust your gut. You don’t need to have legal knowledge to know if something feels wrong. Reporting what happened allows trained professionals to review it in context. Can You File a Civil Lawsuit for Sexual Abuse by a Doctor? In some cases, survivors of doctor abuse choose to file a civil lawsuit. While criminal charges are handled by the state, civil lawsuits are filed by individuals seeking financial compensation for harm caused by another person or institution. A civil lawsuit may be appropriate if: The abuse caused lasting emotional, physical, or financial harm The doctor’s employer (e.g., a hospital or clinic) failed to prevent or respond to known misconduct The institution ignored past complaints or red flags You need support to pay for therapy, lost wages, or other long-term effects A civil claim does not require a criminal conviction or arrest. The legal standards are different, and the focus is on accountability and recovery rather than punishment. Survivors often bring civil cases under theories like: Medical malpractice Negligent hiring or supervision Battery or assault Intentional infliction of emotional distress Vicarious liability (when an employer is held responsible for an employee’s actions) Every case is unique, and the viability of a claim depends on many factors, including state law and evidence. Is There a Time Limit to Take Legal Action? Yes. Every state has a statute of limitations—a legal deadline for filing a lawsuit or criminal charges. However, the laws around sexual abuse have evolved significantly in recent years. In Florida, survivors of certain types of sexual abuse (especially those who were under 16 at the time) may be able to file a civil claim at any time, regardless of how long ago the abuse occurred. Other situations may involve deadlines based on when you: Reached age 18 Discovered the emotional impact of the abuse (delayed discovery rule) Learned the identity of the abuser or institution responsible If you're unsure about your rights or whether you’re within the legal time frame, you can talk to a legal professional confidentially. There is no obligation to take action right away, and sometimes, the first step is simply gathering information. Barriers Survivors Face When Reporting Doctor Abuse Reporting sexual abuse by a doctor can be incredibly difficult. Many survivors hesitate due to fear, shame, or concern that they won’t be believed. These feelings are valid—and all too common. Here are some barriers that often come up: Power imbalance between the patient and provider Fear of retaliation from the doctor, employer, or institution Uncertainty about what happened or whether it was "bad enough" to report Shame or embarrassment, especially if the abuse involved sensitive exams Concern for medical privacy, identity exposure, or public scrutiny You’re not alone in feeling this way. Confidential support is available, and you have the right to take action at your own pace. What Happens After You File a Report? After you file a report—whether with law enforcement, a medical board, or the healthcare facility—the process may unfold in several ways depending on the type of complaint and the agency involved. Here’s what might happen: An Investigation Is Opened: Agencies may begin collecting evidence, reviewing records, and interviewing witnesses or other patients. This can include reviewing past complaints about the doctor. You May Be Asked for a Statement: You might be asked to share additional details or submit a formal statement. This can often be done in writing or through a confidential interview. Protective Measures May Be Taken: In some cases, a medical board or facility may temporarily suspend the doctor’s license or remove them from practice during the investigation. You’ll Likely Be Updated Periodically: Agencies often provide updates about whether disciplinary action was taken, if charges were filed, or if further evidence is needed. These timelines vary, and some investigations can take several months. You are not required to participate in every stage of the process, and your privacy rights are protected under various state and federal laws. If you ever feel unsure about what’s happening—or overwhelmed—there are support organizations and legal professionals who can walk through the process with you. Can Doctors Be Held Accountable Even Without Criminal Charges? Yes. A doctor can face professional or civil consequences even if no criminal charges are filed. While criminal cases require proof “beyond a reasonable doubt,” civil cases and administrative actions use lower legal standards, such as “preponderance of the evidence.” This means that: A state medical board can discipline a doctor based on credible allegations or evidence of misconduct A civil court can find a provider or facility legally liable and award financial damages to the survivor A hospital or clinic can terminate a doctor’s employment based on internal investigations, even if no charges are filed Accountability can take many forms, and justice doesn’t always depend on a criminal conviction. For some survivors, seeing a provider removed from practice or held responsible through civil channels can offer a meaningful sense of closure. How Reporting Can Help Others Reporting doctor abuse can feel intensely personal, but it can also make a broader impact. Many cases involve patterns of misconduct, and your report may be the key to uncovering systemic failures. Your voice can help: Protect future patients from experiencing the same harm Trigger internal investigations that may reveal other victims Prompt licensing boards to take disciplinary action Hold institutions accountable for turning a blind eye to abuse Encourage other survivors to come forward, knowing they are not alone Even if you choose not to pursue legal action, your report can still lead to important change. What Support Resources Are Available? Healing after abuse takes time, and you don’t have to go through it alone. There are confidential, trauma-informed resources available to support survivors. National Resources: RAINN (Rape, Abuse & Incest National Network)1-800-656-HOPE (4673)www.rainn.org National Sexual Violence Resource Centerwww.nsvrc.org VictimConnect Resource Center1-855-4-VICTIM (1-855-484-2846)www.victimconnect.org Florida-Based Resources: Florida Council Against Sexual Violencewww.fcasv.orgProvides local rape crisis centers and legal support Florida Department of Health – Medical Quality Assurancewww.flhealthcomplaint.gov These organizations can offer crisis counseling, information on your rights, and guidance on next steps. Are You Ready to Move Forward? Sexual abuse by a doctor is a serious betrayal that can leave lasting trauma. Whether it happened recently or years ago, you have the right to speak up, ask questions, and explore your options. Reporting abuse can be a powerful step, not just toward accountability, but toward your own healing. Every survivor’s path is different, and there’s no “right” timeline or way to come forward. What matters most is that you know you're not alone, and help is available—confidentially, compassionately, and without judgment. If you’re considering reporting or want to learn more about your legal rights, confidential consultations are available. You don’t have to make decisions alone. Call us today at (954) 641-2100 for a confidential consultation. Schedule a Free Confidential Consultation