North Jersey Physical Therapist Loses License Due to Sexual Misconduct with Patient

Danny O. Steffens was permanently barred from practicing in New Jersey following allegations of gross malpractice and misconduct.

Danny O. Steffens, a North Jersey physical therapist, has permanently lost his license after admitting to engaging in a sexual relationship with one patient and allegedly making inappropriate remarks to another. The New Jersey State Board of Physical Therapy Examiners took swift action, issuing a permanent license revocation to Steffens, who practiced at facilities in New Milford and Fort Lee, Bergen County.

Serious Allegations and Admissions

The disciplinary proceedings were initiated following complaints by two female patients. According to the Board, Steffens admitted during an October 22, 2024, investigative inquiry to having a sexual relationship with a patient identified in official documents as "Patient #1." He also acknowledged sending sexually explicit text messages and photos to the same patient while she was under his care at a New Milford facility.

Regarding a second woman, identified as "Patient #2," Steffens testified that he could not recall making inappropriate comments but admitted treating her at a Fort Lee facility.

The Board determined that the allegations, combined with Steffens’ admissions, constituted gross negligence, professional misconduct, and a breach of regulations regarding sexual misconduct in healthcare settings.

“Any sexual activity between a healthcare practitioner and a patient is an egregious exploitation of trust that violates the most basic rules of professional conduct and can cause long-lasting harm to the patient,” said Cari Fais, Director of the Division of Consumer Affairs. “We commend the Board for acting to protect the public by permanently revoking this individual’s license to practice in New Jersey.”

Permanent Revocation of License

Under a Consent Order finalized on December 4, 2024, Steffens agreed to immediately retire his license to practice physical therapy, with the retirement classified as a permanent revocation. This decision ensures that Steffens is barred from reapplying for licensure in New Jersey at any point in the future.

The investigation was conducted by the Division of Consumer Affairs’ Enforcement Bureau, and the case was prosecuted by Deputy Attorney General Daniel Evan Leef Hewitt under the supervision of Section Chief Doreen A. Hafner of the Professional Boards Prosecution Section within the Division of Law.

Protecting Public Health and Safety

Attorney General Matthew J. Platkin and the Division of Consumer Affairs underscored the importance of upholding ethical standards in healthcare. The Board’s decision reflects a commitment to protecting patients from misconduct and ensuring the integrity of the healthcare profession.

“Protecting patients from sexual exploitation at the hands of healthcare professionals is a commitment we take seriously,” said Attorney General Platkin. “The action announced today demonstrates our continued success in working with our professional licensing boards to investigate and remove sexual predators from our professional ranks.”

Resources for Patients

Patients who believe they have been subjected to inappropriate conduct by a licensed healthcare provider are encouraged to report such incidents. Complaints can be filed online through the New Jersey Division of Consumer Affairs website or by calling 1-800-242-5846 (toll-free within New Jersey) or 973-504-6200.

This case highlights the critical role of patient advocacy and regulatory oversight in safeguarding public health and maintaining trust in professional healthcare services.