551-13

Assignment for Lesson 13

1. How was Dr. Swango able to continue to get credentials and continue to get jobs?

Dr. Swango was able to continue to get credential and proceed getting jobs because the system of background checks was broken and it was impossible for the relevant authorities to get information on his unethical actions. The colleagues and hospital administrators also did not provide a report on his actions because the Medical Ethics was against reporting actions that can negatively affect the reputation of a fellow doctor. Because of these restrictions and broken systems of background checks, Dr. Swango had the opportunity to continue getting credentials and other jobs.

2. Why do you think the data bank information is not available to the public?

I think the data bank information is not available to the public because it has confidential reports that should not be accessed by the public. If it is accessed by the public, this can possibly cause a public uproar. I believe some cases involving undesired medical behaviors like this of Dr. Swango are detailed in the data bank and can easily be known to the public. Thus, access is limited to the subject individuals and organizations.

3. Are there safeguards in place to prevent another Dr. Swango?

There are safeguards in place to prevent actions like those of Dr. Swango. For instance, where it is determined that doctors were negligent and such action led to harm or death of the patient, they can be sued for negligence. Likewise, the background checks are now stronger than before and it is possible to get reports or identify possible actions of doctors like Dr. Swango.