As most employees in Missouri know, upsetting your employers is rarely a good move. However, there are some circumstances where it simply cannot be avoided. For example, if you notice safety breaches, unfair treatment or illegal activity in your place of work, you should try to report it as soon as possible. Of course, you may be concerned that you could be fired for doing so. Fortunately, there is a good chance that you will be protected by law and that any such dismissal would be deemed as retaliatory.
One former Mercy employee, who previously worked as a doctor in the hospital’s oncology department, has accused the hospital of exactly that. His claim is that he was dismissed for revealing instances of Medicaid and Medicare fraud as well as testifying against his employer. However, the hospital claims that there were separate reasons for his dismissal.
These have been cited as unnecessary prescription of narcotics and participating in relationships with two female employees. These allegations are mentioned in the doctor’s own lawsuit, but he contests that these claims were not enough to condone his dismissal. He has accused the hospital of attempting to maximize Medicaid and Medicare reimbursements at the expense of the patients.
Cases like this are often complex, but it is vital to stand up for your rights. If you have been unfairly dismissed from your job, you deserve to have your say. Fortunately, you do not need to do it alone. An attorney may be able to guide you through the process and support you as you pursue justice and compensation for your mistreatment.
Source: Springfield News Leader, “Former Mercy doc alleges wrongful firing after blowing whistle on fraud,” Stephen Herzog, May 27, 2015
