This doctor’s sexual abuse of patients sparks calls for stricter safeguards in healthcare

By MDLinx staff

Published May 1, 2025

Key Takeaways

Industry Buzz

“The courage of the victims who came forward against Levran helped prevent this predator from abusing future victims.” — Karen McDonald, prosecutor

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Dr. Zvi Levran was once a trusted name in Michigan’s youth hockey scene, known as the "hockey doc" who kept local athletes in top form. But what seemed like a routine medical role soon turned into a chilling abuse of power. Levran, a physician who had long been entrusted with the health and safety of young athletes, was sentenced to 10 years in prison after pleading no contest to 28 charges of sexual abuse involving both teenage and adult patients, according to ABC News.^[]

This case, which has drawn parallels to the Larry Nassar scandal, is a stark reminder of the importance of professional boundaries in medicine—especially in settings where we have power over vulnerable patients. The boundaries between doctor and patient are not just ethical guidelines; they are safeguards that protect both our patients and ourselves.

The abuse and breach of trust

Levran’s abuse was a grave violation of both medical ethics and professional trust. Over the years, he had access to young athletes, treating them with the medical care and expertise expected of a physician. Instead, he exploited that position, engaging in inappropriate groping during routine exams and, in some cases, showering with patients after physical activities.

The most disturbing allegations include one patient’s account of Levran performing oral sex during a treatment for a hip injury. These violations took place behind closed doors, where patients, especially vulnerable athletes, should have been able to feel safe.

Levran’s abuse did not just harm individuals—it also undermined the trust that is essential to the doctor-patient relationship.

His actions serve as a cautionary tale about the critical importance of maintaining professional boundaries and the devastating consequences when those boundaries are crossed.

Crossing professional boundaries

Levran’s case highlights an ongoing issue within healthcare: the erosion of professional boundaries. Physicians hold a position of trust and power, especially when working with vulnerable populations like young athletes.

The effect of unprofessional boundaries in healthcare

This trust is built on clear, unambiguous boundaries between healthcare provider and patient. Any violation of those boundaries can have severe and lasting effects, as seen in Levran’s case.

For Levran’s victims, his abuse was a betrayal of their trust. One survivor, now 29, shared her experience in court, saying, “It haunts me, but I just know now he has no power over me.”^[] Her words reflect not only the emotional scars of such abuse but also the critical role of boundaries in maintaining a safe, respectful doctor-patient relationship.

"It haunts me, but I just know now he has no power over me."

— 29-year-old victim

Accountability and reporting

Levran’s sentencing underscores the importance of holding healthcare professionals accountable. While the criminal justice system plays its part, it is also essential for the medical community to be vigilant in protecting patients.

The courage of Levran’s victims in coming forward helped stop his predatory behavior, but this case also serves as a reminder that we must continually examine and enforce professional ethics within our practices.

“The courage of the victims who came forward against Levran helped prevent this predator from abusing future victims,” said prosecutor Karen McDonald.

As physicians, it is our responsibility to both uphold our own boundaries and speak out when we witness violations of those boundaries in our colleagues. Accountability is a shared responsibility that ultimately ensures the safety of our patients and the integrity of our profession.

A reflection on healthcare ethics

Levran’s case is a stark reminder that professional boundaries are not just about preventing abuse; they are about preserving the integrity of the healthcare profession.

As we continue to care for our patients, we must constantly reflect on the ethics that guide our practice. Maintaining clear, defined boundaries is essential to building trust, ensuring patient safety, and protecting the values that define us as medical professionals.

Levran’s actions may have damaged the lives of those he abused, but his case also offers an opportunity for all of us to reaffirm our commitment to ethics, accountability, and the highest standards of care. Let this case be a turning point—reminding us of the power and responsibility we hold as healthcare providers.