Dr. Thomas Lohstreter's medical license suspended after allegation of sexual contact with patient
On March 9, 2020, the Florida Department of Health (FDOH) issued an Order of Emergency Suspension of Dr. Thomas Arnold Lohstreter's medical license following allegations of sexual misconduct committed upon a a female patient at South County Medical Center in Englewood, Florida. Dr. Thomas Lohstreter, a Family Medicine Specialist, is 70 years old and became licensed in Florida in December 2017. He also holds a medical license in Georgia and Minnesota. In 2013, Dr. Thomas Lohstreter was disciplined by the Minnesota Board of Medical Practice for "unethical and unprofessional conduct, improper management of medical records, and inappropriate prescribing practices."
According to the FDOH, Dr. Lohstreter was accused of touching a female patient in an inappropriate manner unrelated to legitimate medical treatment. At the end of December 2019, a 56-year-old woman had a follow up appointment with Lohstreter complaining of nausea and loss of appetite, side effects of an anti-depressant he previously prescribed her. According to the Emergency Order, while the patient was laying down to be examined, Lohstreter pulled up her shirt and bra, and felt her left breast while touching his genitals with his free hand. The Order says he then pulled down the patient's pants and massaged her clitoris after saying, "Oh, something is there." All the while he allegedly masturbated himself in her presence. He then left the room with an erect penis according to the Department of Health.
According to the Order, "Dr. Lohstreter's continued practice as a medical doctor constitutes an immediate, serious danger to the health, safety, or welfare of the citizens of the State of Florida, and this summary procedure is fair under the circumstances to adequately protect the public."
When we go to a doctor's office, we should be able to expect the physicians to be specially trained and licensed medical professionals whose goal is to make us feel better, not violate us. Patients seek out seasoned doctors who possess a good bedside manner, compassion and empathy. They trust that the doctors and staff at the office are carefully vetted, professional, and safe. Under no circumstances is it acceptable for any health care employee, including a doctor, to touch a patient in any sexual manner.
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 other health care professional permitted to have sexual contact with a patient. If you have been a victim of sexual assault or sexual battery by a doctor or at a hospital, medical office or other healthcare 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.