Doctor Sexual Abuse Lawsuits – UCLA Pays Out Record Amount
The University of California (UCLA) reached an agreement to settle doctor sexual abuse lawsuits brought by hundreds of victims of a former UCLA gynecologist. These former patients sued Dr. James Heaps, claiming they had been abused during what were supposed to be medical evaluations. The settlements, totaling about $700 million, cover those claims. This compensation is the biggest amount ever connected to sexual abuse lawsuits involving a public university.
According to reports, it seems that UCLA investigators had gathered substantial evidence against Heaps in 2018, but that the university “continued to pack his waiting room for months before his retirement and never announced that they had rooted out an alleged sexual predator” until his arrest in 2019.
Essentially, it could be construed that UCLA helped allow this monster to continue to treat patients even after they realized Dr. Heaps was a menace and danger to others. As such, the medical system that covered up this abuse was held accountable too.
Heaps strongly maintains his innocence but has had his medical license revoked anyway.
If you know about a child sexual abuse situation and need assistance with learning more about your legal options, please call the California child sexual assault attorney at Beck Law P.C.
Doctor Sexual Abuse: A Serious Problem
Doctor sexual abuse is a serious problem that affects many people in California and across the United States. The California Medical Board, which is responsible for investigating reports of doctor abuse and taking appropriate action against those who violate the law, handles hundreds of doctor abuse cases every year.
Abuse may include physical, sexual, and emotional abuse. Minor patients and elderly patients are especially vulnerable to doctor sexual abuse, as they may be less likely to understand or question treatment procedures, or to be able to assert their rights.
Sexual Abuse by Doctors: What Can Be Done?
Doctor sexual abuse is a serious problem that can often go unnoticed. Victims of doctor sexual abuse may feel scared, alone, or powerless to speak up. However, there are things that can be done to address this problem.
First, victims should reach out for help. One way to do that is by contacting a lawyer. A lawyer can help the victim understand their rights and can help them file a lawsuit against the doctor. Another way that victims of doctor abuse can get help is by contacting the police. The police can investigate the situation and may be able to bring criminal charges against the doctor.
Second, doctors should be held accountable for their actions. This can be done through stricter regulations and punishments. As in the case above, the large sum of compensatory payment will likely serve as a deterrent to other doctors and hospitals who may want to tread down the same path.
Doctors and Sexual Abuse: Who Is to Blame?
Doctor sexual abuse is a very real issue, and unfortunately, it can happen to anyone. If you or someone you know is a victim of doctor sexual abuse, it is important to remember that the victim is never to blame. Contact the California child sexual abuse law firm-Beck Law P.C. immediately so that we can help you get the justice you deserve. Our duty is to help victims hold their abusers accountable, and we’d be happy to help you do just that.
