Dr. Derrick Todd, a Boston-based rheumatologist and PCP formerly with Brigham and Women’s Faulkner Hospital has been publically accused of sexually abusing female patients during their exams. Two lawsuits were filed last month, and now, the third is a class action suit listing at least 82 women, alleging that Dr. Todd performed inappropriate pelvic, breast, and rectal exams on his female patients.
According to media reports, in July of 2023, amid sexual abuse allegations, Dr. Derrick Todd left his position at Brigham as Chief of Clinical Rheumatology, a position he held for four years. Todd was also a rheumatologist and primary care physician for 14 years at Brigham and Charles River Medical Associates in Framingham, Massachusetts. In September 2023, Dr. Todd surrendered his state license following the conclusions from police investigations.
According to reports, two other doctors who worked with Todd at Brigham filed an incident report with the Department of Public Health stating that they questioned the appropriateness of pelvic exams performed by Dr. Todd. The hospital also received reports from three patients expressing the same concerns, which is when the police got involved.
Dr. Charles Morris stated, “After receiving two anonymous complaints about Dr. Derrick Todd, we immediately launched an investigation and placed Dr. Todd on administrative leave.” Morris then went on to say that Todd was terminated from Brigham and Women’s Faulkner Hospital after the investigation concluded and is no longer practicing.
Class Action Sexual Abuse Lawsuit
On September 29, 2023, a medical malpractice lawsuit was filed in Middlesex Superior Court naming Dr. Todd, the two hospitals he worked at, Charles River Medical Associates, Mass General Brigham, two organizations Todd belonged to, and several unnamed employees that they believe “allowed” this to happen. The 82 women who came forward in the class action suit said they saw Dr. Todd for rheumatological conditions that did not warrant pelvic and breast exams. Some incidents date back to 2011. One of the victims who filed a lawsuit also stated that Dr. Todd asked her several invasive questions about her appearance and sexual history. She reported that Todd also performed the exams without other witnesses in the room and would often make sexual comments and text her constantly outside of office hours. She alleges that Todd performed “sexualized” breast and gynecological exams, including digital penetration. The class-action lawsuit alleged these examinations were performed for “his own sexual gratification.”
Finding the right medical provider can be challenging. We seek out seasoned professionals who possess a good bedside manner, compassion, and empathy. When we do finally decide on one, we hope to feel better over time, not be violated by the very person with whom we place our trust. Doctors hold a position of power in the physician-patient relationship under Florida law. It is both unacceptable and unlawful for a healthcare professional to touch a patient in any sexual manner or practice any sexual misconduct while treating the patient.
Horowitz Law has filed numerous sexual misconduct claims against medical professionals on behalf of patients who were inappropriately touched in their care. Under no circumstances is a doctor or nurse permitted to have sexual contact with a patient. If you have been a victim of sexual assault or sexual battery at a medical office or facility, or if you know someone who has, please contact our law firm at 888-283-9922 or send an e-mail to sexual abuse lawyer Adam Horowitz at adam@adamhorowitzlaw.com for a free consultation.