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Prominent Columbia Gynecologist Sexually Abused Patients for Years
External investigation finds university failed to stop predatory doctor Robert Hadden
Published on Mar. 10, 2026
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A report commissioned by Columbia University has found that the institution's 'institutional culture' allowed prominent gynecologist Robert Hadden to sexually abuse hundreds of patients for years. The report states that the university and its affiliated hospital discouraged staff from reporting Hadden, failed to adequately investigate concerns, and did not require chaperones during sensitive examinations, all of which enabled Hadden's predatory behavior.
Why it matters
This case highlights the devastating impact of institutional failures to protect patients, especially when a doctor holds a position of power and authority. The report's findings raise serious questions about Columbia's handling of abuse allegations and the need for stronger oversight and accountability measures in the medical field.
The details
According to the report, Hadden built a 'glowing professional reputation' that helped shield him from criticism, even as concerns about his conduct surfaced. The university and New York-Presbyterian Hospital discouraged staff from reporting Hadden and did not adequately investigate the reports that did make it through. The report also found that the institutions were not vigilant about requiring observers or 'chaperones' during sensitive examinations.
- Hadden stopped practicing in 2012.
- Hadden pleaded guilty in state court in 2016 in a deal that spared him prison but cost him his medical license.
- Hadden was later convicted in federal court and sentenced to 20 years in prison.
The players
Robert Hadden
A prominent gynecologist at Columbia University who sexually abused hundreds of patients for years.
Columbia University
The institution that failed to stop Hadden's predatory behavior due to its 'institutional culture' that discouraged reporting and investigation of concerns.
New York-Presbyterian Hospital
The hospital affiliated with Columbia University that also failed to adequately address concerns about Hadden's conduct.
Mary D'Alton
The chair of the department of obstetrics and gynecology at Columbia who is stepping down due to her role in allowing Hadden to continue seeing patients after concerns arose.
Lee Goldman
The former dean of the Faculties of Health Sciences and Medicine at Columbia who is retiring due to his role in the Hadden case.
What they’re saying
“We are clear about the institutional failures that allowed Hadden to exploit the system, abuse patients, and avoid detection for as long as he did.”
— Claire Shipman, Acting President of Columbia University (Columbia Spectator)
What’s next
The report's findings are expected to prompt further investigations and reforms at Columbia University and New York-Presbyterian Hospital to address the systemic issues that enabled Hadden's predatory behavior.
The takeaway
This case underscores the critical need for robust oversight, accountability, and whistleblower protections in the medical field to prevent predatory doctors from exploiting positions of power and authority to abuse patients. Institutions must prioritize patient safety over reputational concerns and foster a culture that encourages the reporting and thorough investigation of misconduct allegations.
