Columbia University and NewYork-Presbyterian Hospital have agreed to a $750 million settlement with 576 women who alleged sexual abuse by former gynecologist Robert Hadden. This is the largest single payout related to Hadden’s misconduct, bringing total civil settlements connected to his abuse to more than $1 billion.
The women accused Hadden of exploiting his position of trust during medical examinations, with some survivors reporting abuse that spanned decades. Despite repeated complaints, Hadden remained employed at Columbia for years before finally facing criminal charges. He was later convicted on federal counts of enticing patients to cross state lines for unlawful sexual activity.
For survivors, this settlement represents long-sought accountability from both the university and hospital, institutions that were accused of failing to act on earlier warning signs. Many survivors say the resolution is not just about financial recovery, but about acknowledgment of their experiences and institutional responsibility.
This case serves as a reminder of the importance of vigilance in healthcare settings, as well as the role of civil litigation in holding powerful institutions accountable.
