The Defense Health Agency said it is reviewing protocols and procedures after an OBGYN was accused of sexually exploiting patients.
FORT HOOD, Texas — The Defense Health Agency is conducting an internal investigation in the wake of allegations against an Army gynecologist stationed at Fort Hood, the Agency has announced.
Army Maj. Blaine McGraw, an OBGYN who was formerly assigned to Fort Hood’s Carl R. Darnall Army Medical Center, was suspended and removed from patient care after multiple patients accused him of sexually exploiting and secretly recording them during examinations. He is also facing a civil lawsuit in regards to the allegations.
The Defense Health Agency (DHA) said it is “fully cooperating” with the ongoing criminal investigation being conducted into McGraw by the Army Criminal Investigation Division.
The Agency said it has notified patients who received care from McGraw at Darnall Army Medical Center and Tripler Army Medical Center in Honolulu, Hawaii, where McGraw also provided care, to inform them of the investigation and tell them about resources available to them.
“Our first concern is for the patients and families affected by this situation,” the DHA said in a statement. “We know this news has created concerns and questions from our patients and our military community. Our patients and their families remain our highest priority as we respond to this situation. We take allegations of inappropriate conduct with the utmost seriousness.”
The Agency said it has launched a “comprehensive internal review” by clinical experts into the situation to “ensure accountability, review systemic safeguards and rebuild the confidence of our community in the hospital.”
The DHA is also reportedly reviewing clinical protocols, supervision mechanisms and reporting and complaint procedures across the “entire enterprise”. The Agency said Medical Treatment Facility (MTF) Patient Experience staff are available to support patients affected by the situation, and behavioral health counseling is available for patients and staff.
The DHA said it is not able to provide information about the investigation, though patients can contact the Army CID through a criminal investigation screening questionnaire at this link.
Anyone with questions or concerns is encouraged to contact their local Medical Treatment Facility.
“The DHA remains committed to supporting our staff and our patients and continuing to provide world-class care throughout our enterprise,” the DHA said in a statement.