"I believe that if a woman decides to have a termination, it should be done safely, legally and with some dignity."
P. Scott Ricke
If you came in on this page, please start reading on Page 1.
Abortion malpractice: Andi's case
But Ricke faced more than censure for unseemly sexual interest in his abortion patients. Another patient, identified as "A.M.," reported him to the medical board. I'll call her "Andi."
Andi, age 31, said that she had an abortion performed by Ricke at Women's Surgical Clinic on September 22, 1992. The staff had her fill out and sign papers she did not understand and which were not explained to her. When she requested anesthesia, she said, Ricke told her that it was unnecessary and that it would also cost an additional $15, which Andi didn't have. The suction machine struck A as dirty and bloody.
Andi was unprepared for the terrible pain of her abortion. She was discharged after 15 minutes in recovery without being examined or given any medications or arrangements for follow-up.
After leaving the facility, Andi became ill, with bleeding, and sought advise of another doctor, who recommended a second procedure to remove retained tissues.
Andi could not afford this procedure, so she contacted Women's Surgical Clinic and was told Ricke might not be able to see her in upcoming days because of patient load. Andi drove to the clinic, explained her situation to some people outside, and on their recommendation she sought hospital care at their expense. Medical records indicate retained tissues, including necrotic portions, removed during a curretage procedure. The medical board dismissed the matter. (Affidavit, medical records, correspondence with board, and transcript of interview with patient)
Continued on Page 3.
(Sources: Phoenix Gazette 8-13-87, 8-14-87, 8-15-87, 9-12-87 et. al., Arizona Republic, Tucson Citizen 8-13-87; 3158 - Arizona Daily Star 6-21-87 et. al.)
P. Scott Ricke is John Roe 16 in Lime 5.
Previous articles
