The CMO of Washington, D.C.-based United Medical Center has been fired after accusing the firm managing the hospital of misconduct last month, according to The Washington Post.
United Medical Center CMO Julian Craig, MD, received a letter over the weekend from hospital board chairwoman LaRuby May stating his contract will not be renewed. Dr. Craig's employment with the hospital will end Dec. 18, according to The Washington Post.
The move comes after Dr. Craig criticized Veritas, the consulting firm running the hospital, during a Nov. 3 hearing of the D.C. Council's health committee. He accused Veritas of encouraging physicians to admit patients who did not need medical treatment to boost revenue, improperly cutting his hours and ignoring programs focused on patient safety.
Although Veritas owner Chrystie Boucrée denied those allegations, the D.C. Council voted Nov. 7 not to extend its contract with Veritas due to potential mismanagement and patient safety concerns. Council members said Dr. Craig's testimony was a key factor in their decision, according to The Washington Post.
Veritas' contract with UMC was slated to end Nov. 30. However. the company is scheduled to continue running the hospital for up to 60 more days while a new management firm is secured for the facility.
Dr. Craig's attorney, Debra S. Katz, said the hospital's decision not to renew his contract "is absolutely chilling to whistle-blowers." She said Dr. Craig is currently considering his legal options.
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