Several former patients of Dr. Derrick Todd, a rheumatologist accused of sexual abuse, are speaking out to urge Massachusetts lawmakers to pass a new law aimed at protecting patients during sensitive medical exams. The women are pushing for a bill that would require a trained chaperone to be present during such exams unless the patient declines, a measure they believe could prevent future abuse and provide better protection for vulnerable patients.
Women Share Stories of Abuse and Vulnerability
The victims, once strangers to one another, are now united in their call for legislative change after experiencing what they describe as sexual abuse at the hands of Dr. Todd. One of the survivors, Sophia Marsden, recounted her traumatic experience, explaining how her vulnerability due to illness was exploited. “The abuse happened initially because I was so vulnerable and so sick,” Marsden stated.
Another survivor, who chose to remain anonymous due to the sensitive nature of her experience, testified that requiring a medical chaperone during sensitive exams is a matter of basic common-sense protection. “One that should have been there for me and one that can prevent future harm,” she said. The women argue that a chaperone could have acted as a safeguard against the sexual violence they endured, which they claim occurred under the guise of medically necessary procedures.
The Call for Change
The proposed bill would require medical institutions to offer trained chaperones for sensitive exams unless patients opt out. Many of the women testified at a State House hearing, urging lawmakers to recognize the potential for change the bill could bring. Rory McCarthy, a key advocate for the bill, emphasized that the legislation could shift the power dynamic in medical environments where patients may feel powerless to speak out against abuse. “This bill will positively shift the power balance. Abused patients are afraid to come forward. We must do better,” McCarthy said.
Karli Nee, another survivor, echoed this sentiment. “I hope today we can really make a change, and us speaking out can help do that,” she stated during her testimony.
Legal Implications and Dr. Todd's Denials
Dr. Derrick Todd, who has been accused of abusing more than 200 former patients, is facing both criminal and civil lawsuits. He has pleaded not guilty to charges of raping two women during medical exams at his office in Framingham, Massachusetts. His attorneys did not respond to requests for comment regarding the ongoing cases.
In 2023, Dr. Todd resigned from Brigham and Women’s Hospital amid the hospital’s move to fire him due to the allegations of abuse. The case has drawn attention to the vulnerability of patients during medical exams and the need for stronger safeguards to protect them.
Massachusetts Legislature Considers Bill
The Joint Committee on Public Health in Massachusetts is currently reviewing the proposed bill. Supporters believe that enacting this legislation will provide greater protection for patients undergoing sensitive exams and ensure that medical professionals are held to higher standards of accountability.
The testimony from the survivors has brought attention to the need for more robust procedures in healthcare settings, particularly for vulnerable patients. The bill’s passage would serve as a significant step toward ensuring that the experiences of these women—and the abuse they endured can help prevent similar situations from occurring in the future.
How Survivors Can Seek Support
For those who have experienced abuse or misconduct during medical exams, it’s important to understand your rights and the resources available to you. Survivors of sexual abuse in any context, including healthcare settings, are entitled to legal and emotional support. If you or someone you know has been impacted by similar situations, Helping Survivors is here to connect you with trusted resources and legal experts who can guide you through the next steps in your journey to healing and justice.
At Helping Survivors, we believe that no one should feel alone in their fight for accountability. Reach out today for support and guidance in navigating your path forward.
