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Handle rumors appropriately and promptly

Credentialing Resource Center Connection, May 14, 2003

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Dear Credentialing Colleague:

At first, the story starts out as a rumor. You hear people say, "Did you hear about Bill?" or "What a shame about Bill."

But soon the story becomes more definitive. Staff whisper, "I heard that Bill is under investigation at Memorial" Or perhaps, "Yep, the FBI walked right in and took his hard drive."

At that point, a mere rumor becomes a cause for concern, and the job facing hospital and medical staff leaders is clear. They must formally ask Bill to confirm or deny the situation. If Bill does indeed confirm the story, leadership should ask him to supply full details, including information from the original source, as well as documentation from the FBI, a notice of investigation at the other facility, etc.

Then, depending on the severity of the situation, the hospital must determine whether it can safely permit Bill to continue practicing medicine while a more formal review takes place. Leadership might have to ask Bill to step down during the investigation. If Bill doesn't readily accept this suggestion, you may have to enact a precautionary suspension, thereby giving the hospital and its medical staff leaders the opportunity to obtain full information, review that information, and determine a future course of action.

It's likely that Bill might object to these proceedings. But it shouldn't deter the hospital from taking necessary steps to protect patient safety and the institution's reputation; ensure compliance with the law; and assist Bill in minimizing future problems.

This week's letter is a tribute to an Illinois chief of staff who acted appropriately when confronted with a situation similar to that described above. He promptly discussed the issue with the chief executive officer, declared a potential conflict of interest (because Bill was his partner), recommended precautionary suspension, and actively participated in the subsequent medical staff investigation. Well done!

That's all for this week.

All the best,

Hugh Greeley

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