A new ProPublica investigation details what hospitals and the Washington Department of Health knew about Dr. Mulholland and the danger he allegedly posed to patients. The report highlights complaints made over a period of years to institutions including the Department of Health, Kadlec, and Providence. According to the investigation, despite repeated warnings about sexual abuse allegations, meaningful action was not taken.
Dr. Mark Mulholland, OB-GYN
ProPublica Details Years of Warnings
The article outlines numerous complaints made by patients and others who raised concerns about Dr. Mulholland’s conduct. It paints a troubling picture of institutional awareness and inaction.
Complaints Reached the Department of Health
According to the report, the Department of Health first received a complaint regarding Dr. Mulholland’s sexual abuse of patients in 2022 and closed that complaint without disciplining him. More women came forward in 2023 and 2024 to report that they had been sexually abused by Dr. Mulholland. Even after years of reports from courageous survivors, he still has his medical license.
Kadlec and Providence Allegedly Knew for Years
The investigation also reports that Kadlec and Providence received complaints for two decades from patients, nurses, and doctors regarding disturbing sexual misconduct. Kadlec and Providence reportedly investigated Dr. Mulholland in 2019 and 2022, yet continued to employ him and allow him to see patients.
The article further states that when the Department of Health contacted Kadlec about complaints made by patients, employees, and providers, Kadlec claimed it knew only of patient complaints involving “fat shaming” comments and did not disclose the actual nature of its 2019 and 2022 investigations.
This Harm Was Preventable
If these allegations are true, the abuse of hundreds of women was preventable. These institutions allegedly knew he posed a danger to patients and failed to stop him or warn the public.
Institutions Must Listen and Act
We hope this investigation serves as a warning to other institutions. When patients, employees, and providers raise alarm bells about abuse by someone in a position of power, those warnings must be taken seriously. Healthcare institutions should have clear policies and procedures that protect patients from predators. Institutional failures to protect vulnerable people have become far too common, and the harm caused by that breach of trust can be profound.
Supporting Survivors Seeking Justice
We commend the women who have come forward and bravely shared their stories. We remain committed to seeking justice for those who were abused by Dr. Mulholland.
If you believe you were harmed by Dr. Mulholland or another doctor, contact our office to schedule a confidential consultation and discuss your legal options.