Permanently Revoke the Licenses of Doctors Disciplined for Sex Crimes

A new investigation has revealed that more than 2,400 U.S doctors have sexually abused their patients since 1999. Half of the doctors disciplined for sex crimes are still licensed to practice medicine. Doctors shouldn't get special treatment. If they are sanctioned for a sex crime, they should be placed on the registry and not be allowed to work with sensitive populations.

A culture of secrecy has caused police to ignore patient accusations, and doctor-patient privilege has made it difficult for the public to know the extent of patient abuse. Larry Dixon, director of the Alabama Board of Medical Examiners, explained that the resources allocated to medical training may play a role in why doctors are protected when they commit heinous crimes.

According to The Atlanta Journal-Constitution's national investigation, thousands of doctors were found guilty of various sex crimes including molesting patients while under anesthesia, exchanging drugs for sex, masturbating on unconscious patients, and even rape. Doctors convicted by their state medical boards of public indecency and child pornography were still allowed to practice medicine.

Sexual assault accusations against doctors are often covered up or handled quietly. Patient complaints are rarely reported to the police, and when they are reported, the punishment is nothing more than a slap on the wrist. Few doctors lose their license, and many revoked licenses are promptly returned.

Oregon's "Doctor of the Year," Dr. David Mata, was accused of 140 counts of sexual abuse of his patients. He pled guilty to six counts of sexual abuse, and was sentenced to probation at home with no prison time. Dr. Mata is still eligible to reapply for a medical license.

Sign this petition to demand a federal law that will permanently revoke the licenses of doctors disciplined for sex crimes. Patients place their trust in doctors to help when they feel vulnerable. Doctors who violate their patients should not be given a second chance.

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