Chilean Anesthesiologist Investigated for Abusing Sedated Patients; Continues Working

A doctor at the Hospital Provincial del Huasco in Vallenar, Chile, is facing serious allegations of sexual abuse against two patients who were sedated at the time of the incidents. The Public Ministry is investigating the anesthesiologist for two separate alleged assaults that occurred in 2022 and 2025. The Vallenar Local Prosecutor's Office has refiled charges against the professional for both cases, which involve two victims over the age of 14. The prosecution alleges that the women were in a state that prevented them from reacting or defending themselves during the assaults. The first case surfaced in December 2022 when a hospital employee reported the alleged abuse of a sedated patient. An internal investigation was launched by the hospital, and the doctor was formally charged in July 2023, facing a prohibition from contacting or approaching the victim. The second alleged incident reportedly took place in October 2025 at a private clinic in Vallenar, involving another sedated patient. This second complaint led the prosecutor's office to expand its investigation. Despite the ongoing investigation and court-imposed restrictions, including a ban on leaving the country and orders to stay away from the victims, the anesthesiologist continues to work at the Hospital Provincial del Huasco. Hospital officials stated that patient safety protocols remain in place and that operating room staff work collaboratively. The hospital also confirmed an administrative inquiry was initiated in 2022 for the first case, though details on its outcome were not provided. The doctor's responsibility in the alleged crimes will be determined by the justice system.