Unveiling a Disturbing Scandal: Assault Allegations at Encompass Health Colorado Springs

In a shocking revelation, nine women have come forward with disturbing allegations of sexual assault and harassment against a senior physician at Encompass Health Rehabilitation Hospital of Colorado Springs. Their accounts of relentless misconduct span nearly a decade, culminating in an egregious incident at a company Christmas party in 2022.

Despite numerous complaints to HR and top executives, the harassment reportedly continued unchecked, leaving employees feeling unsafe.

A Harrowing Night: The Christmas Party Incident

The complaints, filed with the Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (EEOC), are a response to a harrowing incident at the hospital’s annual Christmas party. Excessive drinking, allegedly encouraged and financed by the hospital’s former CEO, Steven Schaefer, and the unnamed senior physician, took a dark turn. A female colleague, incapacitated by intoxication, reported that the senior physician sexually assaulted her at his home after the party.

The victim filed a complaint with the HR department and left her job, while the senior physician retained his position. This situation highlights the lack of adequate response and protection for the victims.

Whisper Networks and Unaddressed Warnings

The complaints reveal that whisper networks among female employees had already warned about the alleged perpetrator as early as 2017. Employees claim they were forewarned about the provider’s inappropriate behavior, which included explicit discussions about his sex life, on their first days. Despite this, the harassment continued without substantial intervention from the hospital’s management.

Encompass Health’s Response and Legal Actions

Encompass Health responded to these grave allegations, emphasizing its commitment to a workplace free from discrimination, harassment, and retaliation. They stated that they thoroughly investigated and addressed the allegations and that the senior physician, not an employee but a contractor, had his permission to provide patient care revoked.

The women involved plan to take legal action. Their attorney argues that the senior physician’s status as a contractor is irrelevant, as he wielded significant influence and power over clients, sanctioned by the hospital management.

While awaiting the outcome of the EEOC investigation, the women highlight the immense personal cost they have paid over the years due to the ongoing harassment.

This revelation underscores the critical need for institutions to promptly address complaints and take action to protect their employees from harassment and abuse.

Source: Nine women say doctor sexually harassed them at Encompass Health Colorado Springs | FOX21