On this blog when we discuss medical malpractice claims, we often do so in the context of medical mistakes that arise in the course of treating a patient that result in harm. These are not the only situations that could prompt a medical malpractice case however. Such a case could be appropriate if the actions of a healthcare provider were in any way outside of the bounds of what is acceptable. For example, if a nurse or doctor engaged in behavior constituting indecent assault.

Two female patients claim to have experienced such behavior while being treated by a Pittsburgh area doctor. According to authorities, the 59-year-old man was arrested after allegedly engaging in behavior that constituted assault. In addition to trying to grab one of the women, he also is accused of trying to kiss and rub his own body parts upon against the other.

Though the women may not have suffered any physical injuries in the alleged assaults, this does not mean that they came through the incidents unscathed. Psychological damage could be possible leaving the affected parties with anxiety issues and possibly even post traumatic stress disorder.

As is the case when physical injuries are inflicted due to the actions of health care workers, there is nothing that can be done to erase the psychological trauma that individual may have experienced. Some in this position however feel that filing a medical malpractice lawsuit is helpful. In addition to providing financial damages that may be of help in covering related treatment expenses, such cases are often emotionally beneficial as well.

Source: WPXI, “Local physician accused of indecent assault against 2 patients,” July 30, 2013