A recent report has shed light on the alarming number of women who have experienced sexual harm from healthcare providers, with 37% of incidents occurring in the last five years. The data shows that these figures are comparable to instances of sexual harm outside the healthcare system. The most common types of harm reported were stares, belittling statements, requests to undress, touching, sexual offers, indecent acts, rape, and extortion by threats.
The majority of the harm was committed by non-gynecologists, with smaller percentages attributed to gynecologists, other health professionals, dentists, and nursing staff. Most of the incidents occurred in the community, with clinics, private clinics and hospitals being the most common locations. A concerning aspect was that 14% of respondents reported being harmed by the same therapist multiple times. Furthermore, 52% of respondents were unaware of where to turn when faced with sexual harassment in a healthcare setting.
The study also highlighted the low reporting rates of these incidents due to reasons such as doubts about whether actions constituted abuse or concerns about seriousness of case or fear for their safety. Following these incidents many women reported mental emotional personal and social damage.
In response to these findings experts have emphasized on greater awareness and support for victims of sexual harassment within the healthcare system. The Ministry of Health has emphasized that individuals who have faced such harassment can reach out to supervisors within organizations or contact them directly for assistance. Authorities are taking steps to investigate and address complaints of sexual harassment in order to ensure safe environment for patients seeking medical help.