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.
Anchorage healthcare provider sexual assault attorney 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. 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.