Indiana Medical Licensing Board to Decide Fate of Doctor Accused of Violating Patient Privacy and Failing to Report Child Abuse

An Indiana Medical Licensing Board is set to hear allegations Thursday that an Indianapolis doctor should face disciplinary action for speaking publicly about providing an abortion to a 10-year-old rape victim from neighboring Ohio.

Indiana Attorney General Todd Rokita, a Republican, has accused Dr. Caitlin Bernard of failing to report child abuse and violating patient privacy by speaking to a reporter about the young girl’s case. Bernard and her attorneys maintain that the doctor followed Indiana’s child abuse reporting requirements as the girl’s rape was already being investigated by Ohio authorities.

The hearing will decide whether or not to penalize Dr. Bernard for her actions. Possible disciplinary actions include issuing reprimand letters or suspending or revoking a doctor’s license. She’s also accused of breaking federal patient privacy laws by telling a newspaper reporter about the girl’s treatment.

Dr. Bernard’s attorneys have argued that the doctor was acting in the best interest of the girl and that she followed all applicable laws. They also argue that the case is politically motivated and that the Attorney General is attempting to punish the doctor for speaking out about the girl’s case.

The hearing is expected to last several days and will include testimony from witnesses and experts. The outcome of the hearing will determine whether or not Dr. Bernard will face disciplinary action for her actions.