Chicago, IL – A substantial lawsuit unraveled a haunting saga of sexual abuse committed by a Chicago gynecologist, Dr. Fabio Ortega. The legal action accuses prominent medical institution Endeavor Health and its subsidiaries, Northshore Medical Group and Swedish Covenant Hospital, of negligence in addressing the reprehensible actions of Dr. Ortega.
Lawsuit Alleges Gynecologist’s Sexual Misconduct Spanning Decades: Top Chicago Hospitals Turned a Blind Eye
The crux of the matter revolves around a disturbing revelation: three hundred former patients of Ortega have stepped forward, asserting they were subjected to egregious violations and abuse.
Illinois Gynecologist Accused of Sexually Assaulting Patients
Dr. Fabio Ortega, the gynecologist at the center of this lawsuit, has already admitted guilt to sexually abusing two patients in 2021. However, as this deplorable news became public, a tidal wave of 300 victims emerged, each recounting harrowing experiences of sexual assault under the guise of medical care.
One brave individual, Jane Doe, who was 18 and pregnant when she first saw Ortega in the early 1990s, said the abuse began when her husband stopped accompanying her to appointments. “I start noticing uncomfortable conversations with Dr. Ortega, asking me like, how my husband was in bed,” she said. “I thought that I was the only one,” she said. “You don’t think when you go to a doctor, you’re going to … be raped, or touched inappropriate.”
Endeavor Health Accused of Concealing Years of Sexual Abuse
The lawsuit alleges that both Northshore Medical Group and Swedish Covenant Hospital, now operated by Endeavor Health, were complicit in concealing the abuse. Despite receiving complaints and warning signs dating back to the early 1990s, the institutions allegedly chose to turn a blind eye, enabling Ortega’s reprehensible conduct to continue unabated.
Jane Doe’s attorney expressed outrage at the hospitals’ inaction, stating, “They haven’t sent out notices to all their former patients, alerting them to potential abuse. They haven’t proactively come out and addressed this issue head-on. In my opinion, they are continuing to cover this up.”
Endeavor Health’s Response to Allegations of Rampant Doctor Abuse
In response to the explosive allegations, Endeavor Health issued a statement asserting zero tolerance for abuse. However, their actions, or lack thereof, speak volumes. The company claims to prioritize patient safety and trust, yet the lawsuit suggests a disturbing pattern of inaction and concealment.
As this harrowing case unfolds, it serves as a stark reminder of the urgent need for accountability and transparency within healthcare institutions. The well-being and protection of patients must take precedence over any institutional interests or reputational concerns.
Victims Seek Legal Options After Gynecologist Sexual Abuse
Following the disturbing allegations that a Chicago gynecologist sexually abused hundreds of his patients, victims of doctor sexual abuse may wonder what their legal rights are. To get a better understanding of the legal situation, we spoke with Brian Kent, an experienced sexual abuse attorney in Illinois, experienced in doctor sexual assault civil cases.
Laurence Banville, Esq. (LB): Brian, thank you for joining us today. As a sexual abuse attorney, what are the key legal rights and remedies available to the victims sexually assaulted by a doctor?
Brian Kent, Esq. (BK): Well, Laurence, victims may have a few important legal options. First and foremost, they have the right to file a civil lawsuit against both the doctor and the healthcare providers if it can be proven that their negligence allowed the abuse to occur.
LB: Can you expand on that a bit? What kind of damages could the victims seek in a civil lawsuit?
BK: Absolutely. Victims could potentially recover compensatory damages for the physical and emotional harm they suffered and punitive damages to punish the defendants for their egregious conduct. This could include damages for pain and suffering, mental anguish, loss of enjoyment of life, and even future therapy or counseling costs.
LB: What else could you say to patients who may have been abused by a gynecologist or other healthcare professional?
BK: I would encourage them to come forward and speak with an experienced sexual abuse attorney as soon as possible. Time is of the essence, as there are often statutes of limitation that could impact their ability to seek justice. An attorney can help guide them through the complex legal process and ensure their rights are protected. Most importantly, I would encourage victims to not suffer in silence – help and support are available.
LB: Thank you, Brian, for providing this valuable insight.
BK: You’re welcome, Laurence. I hope this information helps empower the victims and sends a strong message that sexual abuse by healthcare providers will not be tolerated.
Contact Us for a Free Consultation to Reclaim Your Rights
We understand the immense pain and trauma that victims and their families have endured due to the alleged abuse by Dr. Fabio Ortega. However, victims of doctor sexual abuse don’t have to face this journey alone. Our compassionate team is here to provide you with the support and legal guidance you need to seek justice and reclaim your rights. If a medical professional has sexually assaulted you or a loved one, please reach out to us today for a free and confidential consultation. Together, we can explore your options, take steps toward healing, and hold those responsible accountable for their actions. Your voice matters, and we are here to listen.
Sources:
Mr. Banville is a personal injury attorney who has experience in handling auto accidents, work injuries, medical malpractice, dog bites, slip and falls, and representing survivors and victims of sexual abuse. Mr. Banville is affiliated with law firms in Pennsylvania, New York, New Jersey, Delaware, D.C., and Maryland. Abuse Guardian
