Page one of today’s Wall Street Journal has an article on the email I sent on November 3, along with a look at the events leading up to and following it.
This story was a personal struggle for me. When other reporters called, I never volunteered or confirmed my personal situation (not even my age) or history, and never really discussed, at length, the process leading up to my sending the email. I have tried to make sure I stay focussed on the failures of HealthConnect and the terrible impact it is having on patient safety.
Ultimately, I came to recognize that it was important for there to be a record, an honest one, of what transpired before and after the email. I spent months prior to November 3, trying to get the patient safety and financial issues relating to HealthConnect investigated properly. The “compliance” department of Kaiser Permanente, under Daniel Garcia, failed utterly to conduct any such investigation. And our Board of Directors abdicated their most important responsibility, to protect Kaiser Permanente and our members.
In December, when Kaiser Permanente became aware that the Los Angeles Times was planning to print a front page story on HealthConnect, the tone of their communications with me changed. Individuals at the organization increasingly seemed desperate to convince me to stop cooperating with the Times. The desperation culminated in a concoction of fact and fiction regarding a list of about a dozen “violations of policy” which the organization subtely hinted could be leaked to the media if necessary. I knew none of the manufactured “violations” could withstand any level of scrutiny, but I also knew that our public relations folks could be highly selective about the “information” they chose to release or withhold, to paint a picture just the way they wanted. (They’ve done it before.)
I knew this process would be difficult, but I also knew it was something I had to do. I know I have done everything I can to make sure our members have access to safe, affordable care, and I will continue to do whatever I can do to protect Kaiser Permanente. Can he say that?
on Apr 24th, 2007 at 13:57
I find your courage inspiring. I think any organization should champion an employee who challenges structures that aren’t ultimately in the best interest of that organization. Kudos to you, Justen, and shame on Kaiser for attempting to blackmale you.
Matthew Panas
on Apr 24th, 2007 at 13:57
Fascinating story. I saw the article in the newstands this morning.
what is the name of the “cheap software tool that helped him gradually build a list on his own computer.”
on Apr 24th, 2007 at 19:31
great story..i am a former KP employee and i’ve gone through the “compliance” process…i know for a fact its flawed and useless….
on Apr 26th, 2007 at 21:11
Justen,
We hope you are ok. As a reminder to anyone who reads this, try to recall the details of any patient who died because of jeopardized safety from Health Connect computer devices and report such to the FDA. We understand that KP is not alone in suffering this debacle with maniacal leadership obscuring the truth. The FDA may be interested and offer support to Justen’s cause.
Best regards,
Menoalittle