More than 200 women and several men have joined a lawsuit against former rheumatologist Dr. Derrick Todd, accusing him of performing unnecessary pelvic floor therapy, breast examinations, testicular examinations, and rectal examinations on patients. The abuse is said to have started in 2010 and continued for several years. The lawsuit also names several other defendants, including the hospitals where Todd worked, for allegedly knowing about the abuse and failing to stop it. Todd has denied the allegations and stated that he will defend his care as the case progresses through the Massachusetts Superior Court system.
Brigham and Women’s Hospital launched an internal investigation into Todd after receiving two anonymous complaints in April 2023. Todd was placed on administrative leave in June and terminated in July. The hospital also notified the Department of Public Health, the state Board of Registration in Medicine, law enforcement, and Todd’s current and former patients. Todd reached a voluntary agreement with the Board of Registration in Medicine to stop practicing medicine anywhere in the country. No criminal charges have been filed against Todd, but former patients have been interviewed by law enforcement.
The lawsuit alleges that Todd gained his patients’ trust and went beyond treating their rheumatic conditions by conducting invasive, unnecessary exams. Victims ranged in age from teenagers to women in their 60s. One woman, who struggled to find a doctor during the COVID-19 pandemic, said Todd became her primary doctor and gynecologist over two years, during which the abuse intensified. She reported Todd to the medical board after discussing his behavior with her gynecologist and realizing something was wrong. Many victims have expressed relief that Todd will no longer practice medicine, but they still struggle to cope with the impact of the abuse on their lives.
Brigham and Women’s Hospital and Charles River Medical Associates have expressed deep concern over the allegations against Todd and stated that they take allegations of misconduct seriously. The hospital said it will always act decisively on any allegations of misconduct, as it did in Todd’s case. Charles River Medical Associates said it was never made aware of any complaints of inappropriate conduct by Todd and reached out to patients to report their concerns. The victims in the lawsuit have shared their stories of feeling violated and ashamed as a result of Todd’s actions, which they believe should prevent him from practicing medicine ever again.
Victims of Todd’s abuse, including Kristin Fritz, have expressed a desire for justice and closure. Fritz, who was assaulted by Todd over a decade ago, feels violated and ashamed for not realizing the wrongdoing in the moment. She hopes that Todd will never be able to harm another patient in the future. The lawsuit seeks accountability for the alleged abuse and compensation for the victims. Despite the lasting impact of the abuse, some victims have found solace in the fact that Todd is facing consequences for his actions. The case against Todd is ongoing, and the victims hope for a resolution that brings them closure and justice.
