Tuesday, March 29, 2011 | 2:02 a.m.
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It’s somewhat comforting to know that the Las Vegas Sun series by Marshall Allen and Alex Richards, “Do No Harm,” has stimulated discussion and possible Nevada legislation for more illumination of hospital mishaps and preventable occurrences. However, if any legislation does come out of the current session, it will be meaningless unless it contains several elements:
1. Reporting has to be mandatory.
2. Make it crystal clear as to what has to be reported.
3. Stiff fines and privilege curtailment for violators.
4. Adequate funding and staffing for oversight and enforcement.
5. Quarterly reporting to the governor and state health agencies.
After more than 52 years in health care, however, I’m not too optimistic about seeing meaningful reform.
The writer, a medical doctor, was chief of staff at University Medical Center from 1982 to 1983.
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