Sexual harassment in the medical field occurs at all levels including executives, patients, and everyone in between. The #MeToo movement continues to raise awareness of harassment, including in the healthcare field, where many are taking action against abusive organizations and individuals. Individuals are making connections and empowering change throughout the industry.
Rise in Cases of Sexual Harassment
There were 4,738 cases of improper sexual conduct reported from 2005-2015. This is the third most reported during that time frame for any field of work. Harassment in the healthcare field usually consists of male perpetrators with female victims. Victims are likely not believed or otherwise punished for speaking out. This discourages victims from speaking out against those who harass others for fear that their situation will end up worse by reporting. This has often left victims with no way to move forward when sexually harassed.
#MeToo’s Impact on Sexual Harassment in Hospitals
Victims have recently gone to Twitter and used the hashtag #MeTooMedicine, connecting these individuals with others that share their experiences. This empowers victims to step forward with these allegations as well as show others that they are not alone. The goal is to normalize accountability for those who victimize women in the healthcare field and the organizations that allow it. Various stories shared show the widespread nature of this problem. This is perpetrated at all levels and in a variety of healthcare organizations.
Get Certified
American Medical Compliance (AMC) is a leader in the industry for compliance, billing, and HR solutions. Learn more about sexual harassment in the workplace and how to create a safe environment for those inside your organization by taking our Sexual Harassment in the Workplace for Healthcare Providers course today. Visit https://americanmedicalcompliance.com/ for more information.
Reference
Christina Jewett (22 March 2018). Women in healthcare are saying #MeToo about sexual harassment in hospitals. Retrieved from: https://www.fiercehealthcare.com/hospitals-health-systems/female-doctors-nurses-hospital-metoo-movement
