Opinion
Peer review needs oversight and transparency to be effective
LETTER — Posted Feb. 2, 2009
Regarding "Supreme Court asked to examine Texas peer review case" (Article, Jan. 5): I understand the doctor's need to take his case to the Supreme Court. The only thing is that patients are also hurt by peer review.
It is a process that allows physicians who have proven legitimate complaints against them to escape sanctions and punishments, particularly if they bring money or prestige to the hospital.
Peer review without oversight and transparency is a danger to both sides of the medical equation.
Carol Levy, MD, Hatfield, Pa.
Note: This item originally appeared at http://www.ama-assn.org/amednews/2009/02/02/edlt0202.htm.