HARRISBURG, Pa., Oct. 25, 2024 — Andreozzi + Foote, a prominent law firm representing victims of abuse by institutions, has filed a lawsuit in a North Carolina court on behalf of a former patient. The suit accuses Erlanger Health, which operates hospitals and primary care facilities in Tennessee and North Carolina, and Dr. Thomas V. Clayton, a physician formerly employed by Erlanger, of sexual abuse, professional misconduct, and negligence.
The lawsuit claims that between December 2021 and September 2022, Dr. Clayton sexually abused the patient multiple times during medical appointments. The lawsuit further alleges that Dr. Clayton manipulated the patient’s medical treatment by prescribing medication in exchange for sexual favors, taking advantage of the patient’s medical and personal vulnerabilities.
The suit also argues that Erlanger Health failed to protect its patients by ignoring or responding insufficiently to known risks associated with Dr. Clayton. The lawsuit alleges that Erlanger’s negligent hiring, inadequate supervision, and lack of effective safety measures allowed the abuse to occur.
“Healthcare providers have a responsibility to ensure their patients’ safety,” said Nathaniel L. Foote of Andreozzi + Foote. “The allegations in this lawsuit represent a serious breach of that responsibility, as well as a failure by Erlanger to protect its patients from a predator within their organization.”
The plaintiff seeks compensation for the physical, emotional, and psychological harm caused by the alleged abuse and is pursuing punitive damages to hold the defendants accountable.
For media inquiries, please contact:
Nathaniel L. Foote, Esq.
Andreozzi + Foote
4503 North Front Street
Harrisburg, PA 17110
Ph: 717.525.9124
Email:
About Andreozzi + Foote:
Andreozzi + Foote is a leading law firm nationally representing survivors of sexual abuse. The firm has successfully represented clients in some of the most high-profile child sexual abuse cases. Led by trauma-informed lawyers, Andreozzi + Foote is dedicated to achieving life-changing outcomes for victims and their families.
SOURCE Andreozzi + Foote