My world is broken and will never be the same

Abstract

Internationally, 33% of medical trainees have experienced sexual harassment. However, little is known about the lived experience of sexual abuse in qualified doctors. This qualitative study explored the narratives of doctors who had experienced sexual abuse from other doctors. This presentation focuses on the experiences of junior doctors who were assaulted by their supervisors. Three participants won their cases in civil or criminal courts. Each obtained their college Fellowship, but their careers were profoundly affected. Abuse occurs within organisational, legal, sociocultural and personal frameworks. This study highlighted missed opportunities for colleagues, clinicians and institutions to provide care for these doctors and prevent future harm.