CHILLICOTHE, Ohio — Adena Health System is once again under scrutiny following allegations of an unnecessary prostate exam performed by one of its providers. An elected official in southeast Ohio has come forward with the claim, stating that they were subjected to the invasive exam.
According to a police report obtained by the Guardian, the victim, whose name will not be released by the Guardian, visited Certified Nurse Practitioner Kelly Hill at his office on Capital Drive on August 20, 2020. During the visit, Hill allegedly suggested a wellness check, including a prostate exam. The well known and respected elected official was reportedly confused because the exam was not mentioned during a previous phone call with Hill, the police report states. When the victim asked what the exam entailed, Hill allegedly said the official would have to remove his pants and Hill would turn off the lights. Following the exam, the elected official claimed that Hill made a comment saying, “see my pants still on.”
It was not until speaking with a friend in the medical field that the victim became aware of the inappropriate nature of the exam and Hill’s alleged comments.
The official stated that they contacted Adena’s patient advocate, receiving a correspondence letter apologizing for the experience and promising to “try harder next time.” Police reports state that the Ross County Prosecutor’s Office declined to pursue criminal charges, viewing the incident as a civil matter.
This is not the first time Adena Regional Medical Center has faced accusations of inappropriate behavior by its medical staff. The hospital has come under fire in recent years for failing to properly address sexual harassment and misconduct claims.
Investigators with the State Medical Board and State Nursing Board visited the region and has an ongoing investigation into Hill after other patients lodged similar complaints.
Adena Health System has yet to release a statement on the most recent bombshell allegation. Hill, who was once the sports medical examiner for Unioto Schools remains employed by the hospital. The incident highlights the importance of ensuring patient safety and consent when seeking medical treatment.
The investigation into this matter is ongoing, and further updates will be provided as they become available.
If you or a loved one has been victim of sexual assault, free, confidential help is available when you call 800.656.HOPE (4673).