Health Care Provider Sexual Misconduct

Anchorage Sexual Assault Attorney

Visiting a doctor, being a resident of a nursing home, having surgery, or otherwise interacting with a medical professional means you are trusting someone to keep you safe. Unfortunately, some healthcare providers take advantage of that trust by sexually assaulting patients within their care. When this happens, victims may feel lost, or ashamed, and not know what to do next. A sexual abuse lawyer Anchorage can trust, Sean Brown, can help and assist you in determining your legal options. Mr. Brown and his team at he Brown Law Firm, LLC understand that victims dealing with the aftermath of a sexual assault have a lot to deal with. As legal advocates for accident victims in Alaska, we offer compassionate and comprehensive legal services for victims who have suffered from a sexual assault perpetrated by a healthcare provider. If you have questions regarding your legal rights, please call our office today at 907-222-9900 to find out more.

Sexual Assault by Healthcare Professionals

Although most workers in the healthcare industry are dedicated to their jobs and offer an environment that is safe for patients, there is a small percentage who do not. Some of those employed in nursing homes, hospitals, doctor’s offices, dental offices, as well as physical or massage therapy facilities can take advantage of their positions by sexually assaulting patients. Because of the nature of medical visits, and those providing care being in positions of trust, it is sometimes difficult for patients to even know what rises to the level of inappropriate. A seasoned Anchorage sexual assault lawyer can help determine if you have been a victim of abuse. Sexual abuse by a medical professional, or sexual medical malpractice, occurs when a medical
professional – which could be a doctor or another healthcare provider – commits unwanted sexual acts against a patient in their care. Examples of behavior considered sexual assault include:

• Unnecessary examinations of private areas
• Making patients undress in front of the healthcare provider
• Grooming practices
• Prolonged touching during examinations

Healthcare providers could also take advantage of unconscious or sedated patients under there care. Sexual assaults can also occur in nursing homes or mental health facilities, where the patients are especially vulnerable and may not be able to communicate their abuse.

Legal Action for Sexual Abuse Victims

Aside from the actual perpetrator who can, and should, be held accountable for a victim’s harm, other parties could also be legally liable for a sexual assault committed by a healthcare provider. A facility or corporation that employs the perpetrator, as well as those who failed to report or prevent suspected abuse may also be held responsible. Sexual assault, especial in a medical setting, can leave victims with a lifetime of trauma, including ongoing fear of doctors. This can also contribute to victims delaying getting treatment for their injuries, which can be both physical and psychological. However, it is important to get such help, as well as consult an experienced sexual assault attorney in Anchorage who can also assist you in seeking justice. Victims who have been sexually assaulted may be entitled to financial compensation for past and future medical expenses arising out of the assault. They may also be awarded damages for loss of income, loss of enjoyment of life, and other pain and suffering. Civil lawsuits can also make sure the perpetrator who assaulted you is made public so that they are not able to harm anyone in the future. In Alaska, the statute of limitations for these claims is two years from the date of the assault, which makes timing important.

Legal Assistance for Anchorage Sexual Assault Victims

If you’ve been sexually abused while under the care of a medical professional, Anchorage sexual assault attorney Sean Brown of The Brown Law Firm is available to help you get justice. Our firm is committed to making sure victims’ voices are heard, and those responsible for their harm are held accountable in court. The Brown Law Firm, LLC represents clients throughout Alaska, including Aniak, Bethel, Hooper Bay, Juneau, Barrow, Fairbanks, and Saint Mary’s. If you need legal assistance in the aftermath of a healthcare provider sexual assault, please call our office at 907-222-9900 to speak with an attorney today.