Oregon Governor Removes Oregon State Hospital Chief Amid Patient Death Investigation
Oregon Governor Tina Kotek announced the resignation of Dr. Sara Walker, the Chief Medical Officer and interim superintendent of the Oregon State Hospital, late Friday evening. This significant change comes on the heels of new information regarding a recent patient death at the hospital, which has been scrutinized for its handling of mentally ill patients facing charges.
Dr. Walker, who had been with the hospital since 2006, was appointed as Chief Medical Officer in 2020 and stepped into the superintendent role last year. Her departure occurs against a backdrop of potential contempt proceedings facing the hospital, as a federal judge assesses its compliance with treatment standards for patients. If found in contempt, the hospital may face costly policy changes.
Details surrounding the patient death, which occurred on March 18, revealed that the hospital’s emergency response was inadequate when the patient lost consciousness. The Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services highlighted deficiencies in care, prompting the hospital to propose measures, including enhanced monitoring and communication among staff.
The Joint Commission has issued a preliminary denial of the hospital’s accreditation due to an "Immediate Threat to Health or Safety," following an unannounced review after the patient’s death. This scenario puts the hospital at risk of losing essential funding.
Emily Cooper, legal director for Disability Rights Oregon, expressed surprise at Walker’s removal, citing her strong rapport with patients and staff. While acknowledging the challenges faced by the hospital, Cooper emphasized the need for more mental health treatment resources across Oregon.
For now, Dave Baden from the Oregon Health Authority will serve as acting superintendent for the next 30 days, tasked with enhancing patient care and safety protocols. In her statement, Kotek stressed the necessity for the hospital to meet the highest standards of care for patients and their families.
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