Psychiatrist Faces Damning Lawsuit Over Allegations of Sexual Misconduct at Winnipeg's Health Sciences Centre

A prominent psychiatrist at Winnipeg's Health Sciences Centre (HSC) is at the center of a grave civil lawsuit, accused of engaging in a pattern of sexual misconduct, abuse of power, and professional negligence against a vulnerable patient. The allegations, detailed in a statement of claim filed in Manitoba's Court of King's Bench, paint a disturbing picture of a therapeutic relationship allegedly exploited for personal gain, leaving the patient with severe and lasting psychological trauma.

Dr.

Marcelo Rivero, a psychiatrist with extensive experience and a significant role at HSC, is named as the primary defendant. The lawsuit contends that Dr. Rivero, while treating a female patient for complex mental health issues including anxiety, depression, and trauma from previous sexual abuse, initiated an inappropriate relationship.

This allegedly began in 2017 and escalated to sexual contact, which the plaintiff asserts was non-consensual due to the inherent power imbalance and her vulnerable state.

The statement of claim outlines how Dr. Rivero allegedly leveraged his position of authority, trust, and intimate knowledge of the patient's deepest vulnerabilities to manipulate and coerce her.

It details instances of inappropriate conversations, boundary violations, and ultimately, alleged sexual acts. The plaintiff claims she was unable to consent due to her mental health condition and the coercive nature of the therapeutic relationship, leading to further psychological deterioration.

Beyond Dr.

Rivero, the lawsuit also implicates the Winnipeg Regional Health Authority (WRHA), which operates HSC, and the College of Physicians and Surgeons of Manitoba (CPSM). The plaintiff argues that the WRHA was negligent in its oversight, failing to adequately supervise Dr. Rivero, implement proper policies to prevent such misconduct, or respond appropriately once allegations surfaced.

Similarly, the CPSM is accused of negligence in its regulatory duties, including a failure to conduct a thorough and timely investigation into prior complaints against Dr. Rivero, thus allowing his alleged misconduct to continue.

The plaintiff's legal team emphasizes the profound and devastating impact of Dr.

Rivero's alleged actions on her life. She reports experiencing intensified post-traumatic stress disorder, severe depression, anxiety, panic attacks, self-harm, and an inability to maintain employment or stable relationships. The lawsuit seeks substantial damages for pain and suffering, loss of income, cost of future care, and aggravated damages for the alleged breach of trust.

Both the WRHA and the CPSM have issued statements acknowledging the seriousness of the allegations.

The WRHA confirmed Dr. Rivero is currently not practicing at HSC, citing privacy concerns regarding personnel matters. The CPSM indicated it has received a complaint and is investigating, reaffirming its commitment to patient safety and holding members accountable. Dr. Rivero's legal counsel has stated he intends to vigorously defend against the allegations, which have not yet been proven in court.

This case underscores the critical importance of professional boundaries in healthcare, particularly within psychiatric care where patients are often at their most vulnerable.

It also highlights the responsibility of regulatory bodies and healthcare institutions to ensure patient safety and maintain public trust. The unfolding legal battle will undoubtedly bring further scrutiny to the practices and oversight mechanisms within Manitoba's healthcare system.