Cardiologist files lawsuit over salary—says she earns 37% less than male colleague she trained
A veteran cardiologist with Brigham and Women’s Hospital has filed a new lawsuit that claims she is making nearly $100,000 less per year than a less experienced male colleague, violating the Massachusetts Equal Pay Act.
Marie Denise Gerhard-Herman, MD, has been a staff physician with Brigham and Women’s Hospital since 1994. According to her complaint filed against Mass General Brigham—first identified by the team at LAW360—she earns an annual salary of $255,000 compared to the approximately $350,000 earned by the male colleague. The complaint emphasized that Gerhard-Herman helped train him.
She did ask her employers about the salary discrepancy before filing the lawsuit.
“The only explanation she received is that [the male colleague] has additional ‘leadership’ assignments, though those leaderships assignments were not specifically identified,” according to the complaint.
When she tried to learn more about the leadership assignments in question, she did find that her male colleague is presenting cases to a “small group” four times per year. However, she noted that she has comparable leadership responsibilities of her own.
The complaint also looked at the salaries of both cardiologists when compared to recent survey data taken from the Medical Group Management Association, noting that Gerhard-Herman’s salary is among the lowest for cardiologists in her position.
The plaintiff is seeking damages, including her attorney’s fees. She has also demanded a trial by jury.
“We are aware of and reviewing the recent court filing," a Mass General Brigham spokesperson told Cardiovascular Business. "While we do not comment on pending litigation, we are committed to offering fair and equitable compensation to all members of our workforce.”
Michael has more than 18 years of experience as a professional writer and editor. He has written at length about cardiology, radiology, artificial intelligence and other key healthcare topics.