Ex-Doc Files Defamation Suit against Massachusetts Hospital

April 2, 2009

The former emergency room chief who raised concerns about patient safety Holyoke Medical Center in Massachusetts has filed a defamation lawsuit against the hospital and three administrators.

Dr. Paul Gerstein claims in his lawsuit filed this week in Suffolk Superior Court that his medical reputation has been “shattered” and he is making less money because of “false and defamatory statements” made by the defendants.

The complaint seeks unspecified damages.

Francis Dibble, a lawyer for the defendants, tells The Republican that Gerstein’s concerns have been addressed and he is only after money.

Gerstein prompted an investigation by the state Public Health Department in 2007 when he claimed emergency room nurses were inexperienced and valued speed over quality of care.
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Information from: The Springfield Republican