Boston, MA — More than 85 women are taking legal action against Dr. Derrick Todd, a former rheumatologist who worked at Brigham & Women’s Hospital and other local medical facilities in Boston. They are accusing him of performing inappropriate pelvic examinations, breast examinations, and rectal examinations for his own sexual gratification, according to court documents filed in Suffolk County Superior Court.
The lawsuit, which is the third to be filed in the last two weeks against Dr. Todd, alleges a pattern of abuse during his tenure at various hospitals in the area. The first lawsuit was filed by an anonymous plaintiff on September 29, and the second was filed by former patient Mimi DiTrani on October 10.
Mimi DiTrani, who suffers from rare autoimmune rheumatological conditions, sought Dr. Todd’s expertise for her condition. However, she claims that instead of the expected bone MRIs, Dr. Todd insisted on conducting repeated gynecological and breast examinations.
The number of women participating in the third lawsuit currently exceeds 85, and more are expected to join, according to the plaintiffs’ attorney. Lead plaintiff Nancy Larsen represents at least 70 former patients in the paperwork filed on Wednesday.
Brigham & Women’s Hospital initiated an investigation into Dr. Todd’s conduct in April after receiving two anonymous complaints regarding his examinations. Charles Morris, the hospital’s Chief Medical Officer, stated that Dr. Todd was placed on administrative leave during the investigation. Subsequently, Todd was terminated in July, and his former patients were informed about the situation. The hospital also reported the incident to the Department of Public Health, the Board of Registration in Medicine, and law enforcement.
The Suffolk County District Attorney’s office has not disclosed whether they are investigating the allegations at this time.
Charles Morris expressed the hospital’s regret for the harm caused to the patients and their families by Dr. Todd’s actions. He emphasized that the hospital will act decisively on any allegations of misconduct.
In response to the allegations, Ingrid S. Martin, an attorney for Dr. Todd, stated that the doctor has been fully cooperative with all investigations and believes that the allegations will ultimately be proven to be without merit. The case continues to unfold, and further legal proceedings are expected as more women come forward with their claims.
