‘Termination of privileges is final’

More than a month after the hospital’s former orthopedic surgeon appealed for reconsideration, the Commonwealth Healthcare Corp. has yet to take any action on his appeal and stands by its decision to terminate the doctor’s medical privileges at the Commonwealth Health Center.

Corporation interim CEO Esther Muña confirmed Friday that the governing body—composed of herself, the director for medical affairs, and the chief financial officer—did not respond to Dr. Grant Walker’s request to withdraw the termination notice issued to him and his demand for an apology from the body.

“We’re not discussing the issue because we’re not reopening the case. The decision was made and we stand by our decision,” Muña said, adding that the decision is final.

Through his then-lawyer Daniel Quidotti, Walker specifically demanded on Nov. 27 that the termination notice be withdrawn and an apology be accorded him. He sought for a response within 14 days.

Muña confirmed receipt of the appeal from the doctor’s counsel, but said this never reached the governing body’s table for discussion.

CHCC hired Walker from Idaho to serve as the hospital’s orthopedic surgeon for 30 days. But prior to the contract expiration, the body terminated his medical privileges due to a host of issues, including alleged unprofessional conduct and insubordination, among other issues. Medical privilege allows a physician to use the facilities of a hospital for surgeries and operation. Losing this privilege means a doctor—whether in public or private clinics—cannot operate or provide services to his clients. Walker is now back in Idaho.

In an email to Saipan Tribune, Walker said he is counting on the corporation’s board of trustees to consider his case.

Yesterday, CHCC board chair Joaquin Torres confirmed that he is looking into the issue. “It’s under the board’s review now,” Torres said. “This is only fair and it is the least we can do to make things right if mistakes were made.”

He refused to further comment.

Walker said that he wanted to come back to the island and serve in the private sector or the public hospital. However, without a medical privilege to use the CHC’s facilities, he cannot perform operations on his clients. He is also appealing to the governor to consider his appeal.

“I respectfully ask Gov. [Eloy] Inos to make good on his intent with Executive Order 2013-11 and bring me back on a 90-day contract, thus restoring orthopedic emergency services to CHCC. Without an operating room I am ineffective as a surgeon,” he added.