Former Cleveland Clinic gastroenterologist pleads not guilty by reason of insanity to patient assault charges

Omar Massoud, MD, PhD, a former Cleveland Clinic gastroenterologist, has pleaded not guilty by reason of insanity to 18 gross sexual imposition and six unlawful restraint charges, according to an Oct. 17 report from Cleveland19.

Advertisement

Dr. Massoud, who previously served as the clinic’s chief of hepatology, was arrested in December after being charged with six felony counts, three involving sexual assaults on patients.  

He allegedly assaulted patients onsite at Cleveland Clinic during liver exams that occurred on March 25, November 11 and November 28, 2022. 

Oct. 16 court documents confirmed that Dr. Massoud pleaded not guilty by reason of insanity and has requested a competency hearing. 

“We immediately reported the accusations to the appropriate law enforcement agencies and are fully cooperating with the investigations. Following a thorough internal investigation, this physician has been terminated. We care deeply about patient safety and any form of misconduct is not tolerated,” Cleveland Clinic said in a statement following Dr. Massoud’s arrest. 

At the Becker's 23rd Annual Spine, Orthopedic and Pain Management-Driven ASC + The Future of Spine Conference, taking place June 11-13 in Chicago, spine surgeons, orthopedic leaders and ASC executives will come together to explore minimally invasive techniques, ASC growth strategies and innovations shaping the future of outpatient spine care. Apply for complimentary registration now.

Advertisement

Next Up in GI & Endoscopy

  • OSF HealthCare Saint Anthony Medical Center in Rockford, Ill., has added Tarik Firozi, MD, according to an April 6 report…

  • Miami-based Gastro Health has finalized a partnership with Digestive Disease Physicians, an Alexandria, Va.-based gastroenterology practice, according to an April…

  • Birmingham (Ala.) Gastroenterology has opened a clinic in Jasper, Ala., expanding access to digestive health services in the region, the…

Advertisement

Comments are closed.