Columbia’s Cultural Issues Hid Physician’s Sexual Assaults, Report Reveals
Two leading doctors resigned from Columbia University and NewYork-Presbyterian Hospital following a damning report about a toxic culture that sheltered a physician accused of sexual assaults. The investigation, commissioned in 2023, revealed systemic issues that hindered the reporting of abuse allegations against Robert Hadden, a former obstetrician-gynecologist who sexually abused numerous patients.
Key Findings of the Investigation
The report, led by Joan Loughnane from Sidley Austin LLP, identified critical failures within the institutions. Hadden, who was once celebrated as a top physician, utilized his reputation to perpetuate his abusive behaviors. Allegations made against him often fell on deaf ears due to a culture that discouraged whistleblowing.
Timeline of Hadden’s Misconduct
- 2012: Hadden’s medical practice was halted after police investigated his inappropriate conduct.
- 2016: He pleaded guilty to sexual abuse charges but avoided imprisonment, angering many victims.
- 2020: Hadden was convicted in a federal case and sentenced to 20 years in prison.
Institutional Responses
In a joint statement, Claire Shipman, acting president of Columbia, and Dr. Katrina Armstrong, chief executive of the university’s medical center, addressed the report’s findings. They acknowledged the failures that allowed Hadden to evade detection and continue abusing patients for years.
Dr. Mary D’Alton, who served as Hadden’s supervisor from 2004 until 2012, will leave her leadership roles due to her prior support for Hadden’s promotions. After Hadden’s arrest in 2012, D’Alton advocated for his return to practice, despite concerns about his conduct. She expressed deep remorse over the suffering inflicted by Hadden.
Administrative Changes at Columbia
Dr. Lee Goldman, former dean of the medical school, also announced his retirement. He was responsible for approving Hadden’s return to practice despite known allegations, contributing to further incidents of abuse.
Voices of Survivors
The report faced criticism for only addressing issues during Hadden’s time as a practicing physician. Advocates, including Marissa Hoechstetter and Evelyn Yang, expressed concerns about the lack of accountability among Columbia’s senior leadership, particularly regarding decisions made after Hadden’s abuse came to light.
Assemblywoman Grace Lee also criticized the report, labeling it inadequate and suggesting it merely reiterated previously known information. She called for a comprehensive investigation into how the university managed the fallout from Hadden’s case.
The ongoing fallout from these revelations emphasizes the urgent need for better mechanisms to report and address sexual misconduct in medical institutions.
