Problem
In resolving prior complaints Ms. Green has spoken with Dr. Smith and placed a memo in his file. The next time she had a supervising physician speak with him and warn him that his actions were illegal and could lead to further discipline. Each time he has apologized and said it was unintentional; but now there is a clear pattern. Ms. Green is worried about Hightower employees and providing a safe environment, she is worried about Dr. Smith's office patients as well as those he treats in Hightower Hospital. She is worried about the liability that Hightower Hospital might be exposed to. What should Ms. Green do? She has considered several possible courses of action. She can ignore the problem and expect it will go away and not reoccur for several years. She can again speak with Dr. Smith and threaten him with discipline. She can seek to start an action before the Medical Staff to have him officially sanctioned. Or she can seek to start an action to have him removed from the Hightower Medical Staff and reported to the State Board of Medical Examiners. There are probably other options but these are the ones that have come to Ms. Green's mind. What course of action or actions would you recommend to Ms. Green? Explain your recommendations and cite any relevant case law that applies.