Whidbey General: Conflict law needs clarity
July 3, 2008 · Updated 9:52 PM
Im still fretting about the controversy over Doc Z running for hospital commissioner. Ive talked with several friends in the medical business and asked them what their hospitals policy is. From California to Maryland, the answer was the same: He can certainly serve, without penalty, so long as he does not vote on any issue that involves his department or its budget.
One friend is a physician who sits on the board of one of Los Angeles largest and most prestigious hospitals. Hes also on the staff of that hospital and has a private practice, as well. A local doctor for whom I have nothing but the highest regard, disagrees with my position, citing the RCW that has been quoted in previous letters.
We have an honest difference of LAY OPINIONS. The two attorneys currently involved show that interpretation is nine-tenths of the law. In addition to adopting changes to allow five commissioners on the hospital board, I would suggest the hospital ask one of our retired Superior Court judges to issue a more learned interpretation of the RCW.
And I hope the News-Times will print the RCW and the judges answer.
Caroline Byng
Coupeville
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