Memphis, July 31, 2025
News Summary
Dr. Sanjeev Kumar, a physician in Memphis, faces 36 federal charges including healthcare fraud and sexual coercion. Chief U.S. District Judge Sheryl H. Lipman has taken over his case. Kumar is prohibited from prescribing certain medications and his clinic remains temporarily closed as legal proceedings continue. If convicted, he could face up to 20 years in prison, raising serious public safety concerns amid allegations of unnecessary medical procedures and patient coercion.
Memphis—A new judge has been appointed to oversee the case of Dr. Sanjeev Kumar, a Memphis physician facing multiple federal charges, including healthcare fraud and coercion involving sexual acts. Chief U.S. District Judge Sheryl H. Lipman will now preside over the case, which was reassigned by the United States District Court for the Western District of Tennessee on July 28, 2025.
Dr. Kumar was indicted on a total of 36 federal charges, with 23 of these being directly linked to healthcare fraud, unnecessary medical procedures, and the reuse of medical devices that should only be used once. The allegations include coercing at least four women into sexual acts and performing surgeries without appropriately obtaining informed consent. The legal actions stem from severe allegations that also include submitting falsified claims to Medicare and Medicaid.
As of now, there is no trial date set following the transfer of the case. In April 2025, the state of Tennessee prohibited Dr. Kumar from prescribing Schedule II drugs while the legal proceedings are underway. His clinic had been shut down, although it is expected to reopen under certain conditions. Currently, it remains listed as temporarily closed, as of July 29, 2025.
Charges and Potential Penalties
If convicted, Dr. Kumar could face a maximum sentence of up to 20 years in prison for sexual offenses, similar penalties for healthcare fraud, and further consequences for the misuse of medical devices. His practices allegedly compromised patient safety, which has raised significant public concern and media scrutiny.
Dr. Kumar’s Medical Background
Dr. Kumar is noted to be among a limited number of specialists in the U.S.—one of only 300 in the fields of gynecologic oncology and high-risk pelvic surgery. His clinic was recognized for providing unique services that are reportedly not available within a 200-mile radius of Memphis. His attorney has advocated for Dr. Kumar’s right to practice, emphasizing that patients should have the autonomy to choose their healthcare providers.
Public Perception and Future Prospects
The case has garnered widespread media attention, influencing how potential patients view Dr. Kumar and his practice. Despite the serious nature of the allegations, the option for patients to seek care from him remains, should they decide it is suitable for them. The reopening of his clinic is contingent upon adherence to specific guidelines that are yet to be fully defined by judicial proceedings.
Summary of Key Information
| Key Features | Details |
|---|---|
| New Judge | Chief U.S. District Judge Sheryl H. Lipman |
| Charges | 36 federal charges including healthcare fraud and coercion |
| Maximum Penalty | Up to 20 years in prison for sexual offenses |
| Prescription Prohibition | Prohibited from prescribing Schedule II drugs |
| Clinic Status | Temporarily closed as of July 29, 2025 |
| Specialty | Sought-after specialist in gynecologic oncology and high-risk pelvic surgery |
FAQs
What charges is Dr. Sanjeev Kumar facing?
Dr. Sanjeev Kumar is facing 36 federal charges including healthcare fraud, coercion, unnecessary medical procedures, and reuse of single-use medical devices.
What is the potential penalty if Dr. Kumar is convicted?
If convicted, Dr. Kumar could face a maximum of up to 20 years in prison for sexual offenses and similar penalties for healthcare fraud and improper use of medical devices.
Is Dr. Kumar currently allowed to practice medicine?
Dr. Kumar’s clinic is currently closed and he is prohibited from prescribing Schedule II drugs while his case is ongoing, but there are considerations for reopening his clinic under certain conditions.
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Additional Resources
- WREG: New Judge Transferred to Case
- Google Search: Dr. Sanjeev Kumar
- Eastern Progress: New Judge Takes Over Case
- Wikipedia: Healthcare Fraud
- Local Memphis: Memphis Doctor Indicted
- Google News: Dr. Sanjeev Kumar Case
- Fox 13 Memphis: More Charges for Indicted Gynecologist
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Safety
- Action News 5: Trial Set for Memphis Doctor
- Google Scholar: Healthcare Fraud Case
