Baltimore-based Johns Hopkins Health System has agreed to a $190 million settlement with more than 7,000 patients who were allegedly photographed and videotaped by a gynecologist during their pelvic exams, according to a Wall Street Journal report.
The health system fired gynecologist Nikita Levy, MD, in February 2013 after learning of allegations from a colleague that he used a pen-like camera around his neck to photograph patients. In a home search, law enforcement officials found an "extraordinary amount" of images of patients on Dr. Levy's home server, including images of more than 60 minors. Dr. Levy committed suicide during the investigation before criminal charges were filed.
The health system has been engaged in settlement discussions with attorneys since last fall. The settlement funds will come from insurance and "will not in any way compromise the ability of the health system to serve its patients, staff and community," the system said in a statement.
"We assure you that one individual does not define Johns Hopkins," the system said. "Johns Hopkins is defined by the tens of thousands of employees who come to work determined to provide world-class care for our patients and their families."
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