Cindy Lee Neighbors's Blog
July 13, 2025
Beyond the Oath: Confronting Online Harassment and Systemic Rot in Medicine
The Hippocratic Oath, a cornerstone of medical ethics, pledges physicians to "do no harm." Yet, in the digital age, and within the very institutions meant to heal, a different kind of harm persists: online harassment, trolling, and systemic undermining. As I navigate the aftermath of speaking my truth, the ongoing "non-anonymous ratings" and social media trolling from former colleagues reveal a stark truth about who truly upholds their oath, who is driven solely by profit, and who embodies a deeply toxic culture.
This isn't just about negative feedback; it's a continuation of the psychological warfare I experienced in military surgical residency. The same individuals who once engaged in inappropriate conduct, who would complain if their advances were not reciprocated, are now actively working to undermine my word and discredit my experiences online. It's a chilling reminder that the rot within some systems runs deep, manifesting in persistent efforts to silence and shame.
The Hypocrisy of Harassment: A Pattern of Control
The pattern is clear: individuals who engage in harassment and discrimination often resort to further tactics when challenged. The online trolling and negative "ratings" are not isolated incidents; they are an extension of a desire for control and a punitive response to those who dare to speak out. This behavior, often from those who once held positions of power, exposes a fundamental lack of integrity and a profound disrespect for the very ethical standards they swore to uphold. It's a sad truth that some are "in it just for the money," willing to compromise professional ethics to maintain a toxic status quo.
The Erosion of Trust: Cheating and Patient Care
This online harassment is inextricably linked to a larger, more critical issue: the compromise of integrity within medical training. When individuals cheat their way through exams, when systemic issues like sexual harassment and discrimination are swept under the rug, it doesn't just harm the trainees. It directly compromises the integrity of the doctors taking care of patients.
Cheating undermines competence: If doctors are not genuinely earning their knowledge, patient safety is at risk. It erodes the public's trust in the medical profession.
Toxic cultures breed poor care: Environments where harassment and discrimination are tolerated often prioritize power dynamics over patient well-being, leading to burnout, fear, and ultimately, compromised care.
We, as patients and healthcare workers, deserve better. The integrity of our healthcare system depends on accountability and a zero-tolerance policy for unethical behavior.
A Call to Action: Fighting Back Systemic Abuse
To the ladies, and anyone who has experienced sexual harassment or discrimination in healthcare or the military: please, do not fall for this. You are not alone, and your voice has power. It is crucial to fight back against these systemic abuses.
For Sexual Harassment & Discrimination:
Find a FEMALE Lawyer: Seek legal counsel from attorneys who specialize in civil rights, employment law, or sexual harassment. Many women lawyers are particularly attuned to the nuances of gender-based discrimination and can provide invaluable support and expertise. Resources like the American Civil Liberties Union (ACLU) can provide guidance on civil rights violations and may offer referrals.
Consider a Class Action Lawsuit: If you believe multiple individuals have experienced similar harassment or discrimination within an institution, a class-action lawsuit can be a powerful tool to hold the system accountable and drive systemic change. Consult with a qualified attorney to explore this option.
For Military-Specific Claims:
Military OneSource: This is an excellent resource for active duty, Guard, Reserve, and their families. They offer confidential non-medical counseling, and can provide guidance on filing sexual harassment and assault claims (SHARP/SAPR programs) within the military.
Inspector General (IG) Complaints: You can file an IG complaint against military personnel or units for misconduct, including harassment and abuse of power.
Congressional Inquiries: As I experienced, reaching out to your congressional representatives can sometimes prompt an inquiry into systemic issues.
Why Your Voice Matters
Speaking out, whether in a memoir, a blog post, or through formal channels, is an act of immense courage. It's terrifying, and the backlash can be real. But every voice that breaks the silence contributes to chipping away at the stigma and the systemic rot. You are not just fighting for yourself; you are fighting for the integrity of the profession and for the safety of future patients and colleagues.
My journey is a testament to the fact that healing is possible, and that even after being targeted, your purpose can be redefined. Your experience is valid, your voice is powerful, and you are not alone in this fight.
This isn't just about negative feedback; it's a continuation of the psychological warfare I experienced in military surgical residency. The same individuals who once engaged in inappropriate conduct, who would complain if their advances were not reciprocated, are now actively working to undermine my word and discredit my experiences online. It's a chilling reminder that the rot within some systems runs deep, manifesting in persistent efforts to silence and shame.
The Hypocrisy of Harassment: A Pattern of Control
The pattern is clear: individuals who engage in harassment and discrimination often resort to further tactics when challenged. The online trolling and negative "ratings" are not isolated incidents; they are an extension of a desire for control and a punitive response to those who dare to speak out. This behavior, often from those who once held positions of power, exposes a fundamental lack of integrity and a profound disrespect for the very ethical standards they swore to uphold. It's a sad truth that some are "in it just for the money," willing to compromise professional ethics to maintain a toxic status quo.
The Erosion of Trust: Cheating and Patient Care
This online harassment is inextricably linked to a larger, more critical issue: the compromise of integrity within medical training. When individuals cheat their way through exams, when systemic issues like sexual harassment and discrimination are swept under the rug, it doesn't just harm the trainees. It directly compromises the integrity of the doctors taking care of patients.
Cheating undermines competence: If doctors are not genuinely earning their knowledge, patient safety is at risk. It erodes the public's trust in the medical profession.
Toxic cultures breed poor care: Environments where harassment and discrimination are tolerated often prioritize power dynamics over patient well-being, leading to burnout, fear, and ultimately, compromised care.
We, as patients and healthcare workers, deserve better. The integrity of our healthcare system depends on accountability and a zero-tolerance policy for unethical behavior.
A Call to Action: Fighting Back Systemic Abuse
To the ladies, and anyone who has experienced sexual harassment or discrimination in healthcare or the military: please, do not fall for this. You are not alone, and your voice has power. It is crucial to fight back against these systemic abuses.
For Sexual Harassment & Discrimination:
Find a FEMALE Lawyer: Seek legal counsel from attorneys who specialize in civil rights, employment law, or sexual harassment. Many women lawyers are particularly attuned to the nuances of gender-based discrimination and can provide invaluable support and expertise. Resources like the American Civil Liberties Union (ACLU) can provide guidance on civil rights violations and may offer referrals.
Consider a Class Action Lawsuit: If you believe multiple individuals have experienced similar harassment or discrimination within an institution, a class-action lawsuit can be a powerful tool to hold the system accountable and drive systemic change. Consult with a qualified attorney to explore this option.
For Military-Specific Claims:
Military OneSource: This is an excellent resource for active duty, Guard, Reserve, and their families. They offer confidential non-medical counseling, and can provide guidance on filing sexual harassment and assault claims (SHARP/SAPR programs) within the military.
Inspector General (IG) Complaints: You can file an IG complaint against military personnel or units for misconduct, including harassment and abuse of power.
Congressional Inquiries: As I experienced, reaching out to your congressional representatives can sometimes prompt an inquiry into systemic issues.
Why Your Voice Matters
Speaking out, whether in a memoir, a blog post, or through formal channels, is an act of immense courage. It's terrifying, and the backlash can be real. But every voice that breaks the silence contributes to chipping away at the stigma and the systemic rot. You are not just fighting for yourself; you are fighting for the integrity of the profession and for the safety of future patients and colleagues.
My journey is a testament to the fact that healing is possible, and that even after being targeted, your purpose can be redefined. Your experience is valid, your voice is powerful, and you are not alone in this fight.
