Woman Sues Kaiser Permanente Over Abuse Claims by Dr. Wilmington, With 50 Others Coming Forward
Updated
Updated · KATU · May 11
Woman Sues Kaiser Permanente Over Abuse Claims by Dr. Wilmington, With 50 Others Coming Forward
5 articles · Updated · KATU · May 11
A woman identified as Jane Doe sued Kaiser Permanente, alleging it failed to protect her from sexual abuse by Dr. Michael Wilmington while she was treated as a minor at its Salmon Creek, Washington, facility.
The complaint says Kaiser failed to properly hire, supervise and train staff around Wilmington, allowing him to use his position and clinic access to conduct inappropriate exams and cause lasting emotional trauma.
At least 50 people have now come forward with allegations or concerns involving Wilmington, the plaintiff's attorney said, suggesting the case could extend well beyond a single victim.
Kaiser said it has tried to notify every patient Wilmington saw, set up a dedicated hotline, and is cooperating with law enforcement while urging anyone with relevant information to contact Vancouver police.
The lawsuit seeks damages, attorney fees and other relief, and also argues the alleged conduct amounted to sex discrimination in a place of public accommodation under Washington law.
With complaints spanning two decades, who at Kaiser ignored the warnings about the abusive doctor, and why?
With the abuser dead and over 50 victims emerging, can a lawsuit against Kaiser truly deliver justice?
Kaiser Permanente Sued for Institutional Negligence After Dozens of Alleged Child Abuse Cases Linked to Dr. Michael Wilmington
Overview
The report details the rapid expansion of a civil lawsuit against Dr. Michael Wilmington and Kaiser Permanente, following allegations that Dr. Wilmington abused dozens of patients over decades. Attorneys argue that Kaiser Permanente failed to act on serious complaints, raising concerns about institutional negligence and systemic failures to protect vulnerable patients. The lawsuit seeks to uncover what the institution knew and when, while Kaiser Permanente has responded by notifying affected patients and cooperating with law enforcement. The case highlights the deep impact on survivors, the erosion of public trust, and the urgent need for stronger safeguards and accountability in healthcare institutions.