Ask wrote on May 11, 2007 6:25 PM:By Tri City discussing this issue so openly, are they not breaking privacy??? They dont have to mention the names, but logical for every employee at Tri City to know who was involved and that they got fired.... Thanks Tri City, you just opened up a law suit.

UNION .... wrote on May 11, 2007 7:01 PM:The CEO.Gonzalez has a long history of firing working people....Gonzalez is a union buster...It's easy for a man who makes over $500,000 a year...more the U.S.President and our California Gov. to fire the little guy...there a lot more to this than what meets the eye!!

neighbor wrote on May 11, 2007 8:16 PM:The TriCity action is outrageous. The privacy law makes a huge change in medical record practices that were decades old. The "violations' clearly only call for minor discipline and additional training. It is no wonder that the voters keep saying NO to a TriCity bond.

Shameful wrote on May 11, 2007 8:25 PM:How does Tri-City know they 'caught it' before any previous records were photographed? They only know when the security guard witnessed the attempted act, but how does that equate with it was the first time? Review your hiring policies, not just give them a 'privacy act' to read and sign. Absolutely they should all be fired; anyone thinking differently probably has a criminal mind as well as those being fired. I hope I never have to use Tri-City.

To Union President wrote on May 11, 2007 8:29 PM:Suppose it was YOUR x-ray being photographed or your child's naked body? Why don't you commend the security guard (in your union?) for being honest, honorable and dedicated to protecting patients? What little guy being fired? Yeah, a little shyster is what you mean. How could you defend should horrid behavior in an ER?...

Tri-City Employee wrote on May 11, 2007 8:45 PM:How on earth is it Dr. Gonzalez' fault that my... coworkers think it's okay to take pictures and access private information? Ridiculous. They knew that what they were doing wasn't right, and I'm glad I don't have to work with them anymore. So sorry you'll be losing out on union dues - I can't believe you are supporting these nurses who don't respect a patient's privacy. Glad I know what CNA really stands really stands for before you get my association fees.

roy wrote on May 11, 2007 9:25 PM:Gonzales is either inept or decided to target someone because cell phone pictures of x rays from Tri City has been going on for YEARS.And was common knowledge among many many people there. So he finally decided to do something about it now?

TCMC RN wrote on May 11, 2007 9:25 PM:TCMC GONE WILD!!! Then Administration makes things even worse. #1 No cell phones/camera phones should be allowed by anyone in patient care areas ie healthcare workers, patients,family or visitors etc. We need to return to old rules in an effort to protect all patients!! #2 These employees were immediately disciplined by being placed on administrative leave without pay-end of story. #3 Make sure that current policy on cell phones is updated to reflect protections needed to protect patient privacy . Administration has to take it further despite the fact that patient's privacy was not violated. In the last 6 weeks administration and management has stepped up their aggression towards nurses by writing them up, denying vacations, cutting staff etc. Morale at the hospital and faith in our leadership is at an all time low.

Oh brother! wrote on May 11, 2007 10:26 PM:Union busting? C'mon....you know we don't like Gonzales but really. There sounds like there is something to this for real. IF these nurses looked at files or films that they had no active duties to the patient, they were wrong and should be fired. Of course when all is said and done are the people in India or Korea protecting our medical privacy with all the outsourcing of records, reading xrays and other tests? Probably not.

To UNION PRESIDENT wrote on May 11, 2007 11:45 PM:Patients who come in to the hospital are in a vulnurable position and expect nurses to take care of them, not take advantage of that vulnerability. They also have a right to privacy. Any nurse or employee who would take pictures of patients or patients' private records deserves to be fired. What could possibly excuse those actions??? Just how important does the union think it is to protect patient rights???

to Ask wrote on May 12, 2007 1:05 AM:That is utterly ridiculous. Maybe you would be sue happy, but your talking about a losing case. GET REAL

TCMC Emp wrote on May 12, 2007 4:53 AM:Don't confuse the issue, this has nothing to do with the union or Gonzalez. These employees' actions are inexcusable and they should be fired.

Paul wrote on May 12, 2007 5:20 AM:ANY employees at the hospital who violated federal privacy policies by using personal cell phones to take pictures of private medical records should be immediately terminated. However, any employees who FAILED TO REPORT violations of federal privacy policies NOT should be summarily fired. There is ample room for discretion in addressing these lapses of judgment. A warning would seem to be more appropriate.

WITH THE EXCEPTION wrote on May 12, 2007 5:25 AM:of documenting procedures not followed, poor conditions and anything relating to sub-standard care or blatant violations of the law or medical ethics, EVERY SINGLE EMPLOYEE of TCMC caught taking a picture NOT SPECIFICALLY REQUESTED BY THE PATIENT should be fired on the spot.

Carter: wrote on May 12, 2007 6:25 AM: Sit down ... union! These people disobeyed company policy they broke the law by coping medical records without authorization. Poor performance on the job earns being fired. I am a union member.

HIPPA or Union Busting wrote on May 12, 2007 6:34 AM:Patients are given i.d. numbers to their file. When the DHS or CMS or JACHO survey the hospital for medical violations they pull patients files. Are the patients' names redacted? Sitting in the outpatient rooms, my name is called for me to get an x-ray, lab tests, or in ER. What about HIPPA in these situations? Everyone sees the id numbers not the patients names. Hospitals don't like the HIPPA rule (consumer protection)so they have banned together to take the intent of the ruling to new heights. This is another sham by the administration... bust the union then the admin can thrwart their own ineptness.

HIPPA??? wrote on May 12, 2007 6:39 AM:Were these employees concerned that test results, diagnosis, and medical treatment did not meet the standard of care by the Emergency Room, Radiology, or Laboratory medical staff?

JSten wrote on May 12, 2007 6:57 AM: I didnt think camera phones were all that good.

Neighbor wrote on May 12, 2007 7:02 AM:so...exactly how does one have "privacy" when medical records are outsourced to India, Korea, China?? Privacy is an illusion - just ask the Feds, especially since 9/11. ...

citizen wrote on May 12, 2007 7:18 AM:To UNION PRESIDENT: People like you are what is wrong with unions. Do not corrupt the foundation of the union movement with absurdities.

Oceansider wrote on May 12, 2007 7:46 AM:I'm certainly no fan of either Dr. Gonzalez or of TCMC's managing board in general, but violating a patient's privacy is unacceptable and the sole fault of the employee doing it. Management at TCMC has a lot to answer for, but the blame for this latest fiasco belongs squarely with the offenders. Firing them was the absolute right thing to do.

Mike wrote on May 12, 2007 8:04 AM:....and this pathetic hospital wanted to dip into our wallets for more money through higher property taxes??? Close this ... down!!!

Grump wrote on May 12, 2007 8:38 AM:I guess there will be a gazillion dollar law suit now...wasting more tax payer money.

Common Sense wrote on May 12, 2007 8:57 AM:The employees who were fired signed a document and knew that there actions were prohibited not to mention unethical. They should be fired as well as any other hospital employee who attempts to use a camera phone in the hospital when they know it is strictly against the patient privacy rules. Let's take politics out of this incident and call a spade a spade!

Joe B wrote on May 12, 2007 9:16 AM:And if this was a HIPPA issue, was it smart to get it on the front page, does this really move the hospital's image forward?

forced to be union wrote on May 12, 2007 9:17 AM:To the union president: Don't even go there. Do you want to talk salaries? Let's let the community know that Rose Ann DeMoro, California Nurses Association Executive Director makes $208,203 plus expenses, and her husband Robert DeMoro, Director of Research, makes $113.167 plus expenses. Shall I go on Deborah?

jim wrote on May 12, 2007 9:19 AM:What does the union have to do with employees at TCMC violating pt rights? I will till you. CNA will give each nurse due process under the letter of the law as every american be afforded.Representing an employee does neither condone or justify any action. This is a internal problem from Art Gonzalez ceo and down ,no managers fired ,no doctors willing to state they saw anything. Why was trying cover this up? Remember the board at their next meeting will be trying to give Art G. a raise while laying off 70 employees by june 1.

Joe B to Union Pres. wrote on May 12, 2007 9:20 AM:Art, the CEO, does not have a salary of $500,000, his salary is 332,000 give or take. With bonuses, his salary goes up to about $750,000, which I think this year he has yet to receive a bonus. I don't like the man either, but let's keep the TRUTH in the fore front. If we reduce ourselves to lies, than we are no better than the administration, which in my experiences and opinion, they hold a monopoly on.

Joe B wrote on May 12, 2007 9:22 AM:Yet another reason why we voted no on any bond. They may blame the employees, but the environment at Try-City is a little too much like a Cloak-And-Dagger story in the first place and the reason for this environment can be blamed on the Administration.

Joe B to Coleman wrote on May 12, 2007 9:23 AM:Great Marketing, keep it up:)

tcmc supporting nurse wrote on May 12, 2007 9:31 AM:Dr. Gonzalez, This incident is important, but not as crucial as what you and your power-struggling administrative leaders are doing to hardworking nurses who love TCMC and their patients. You need to monitor the people closest to you making decisions that affect patient care and the nurses that care for them. Do you really know what's going on, ASK A NURSE! Maybe your leaders need a lession in compassion.

To neighbor wrote on May 12, 2007 9:40 AM:The "new" privacy laws have been around for years, and a nurse shouldn't have to be told it's not acceptable to take pictures of patients or their records. Hello!!!!!

Nanchi wrote on May 12, 2007 9:50 AM:This is completely unacceptable. I work at another hospital. Employees, including housekeepers, plumbers, admin staff, nurses and physicians all are trained in patient privacy. They knew they were breaking the law. Glad they are gone.

TCMC RN wrote on May 12, 2007 9:58 AM:MORE THAN MEETS THE EYE !! There is more going on @TCMC than just the above incidents. As one BOARD member eluded to-the financial picture is not bright. Recently 2-Pavillion was closed and we don't know what happened to those workers. Per-diem staff are being cut and staffing levels are at a minimum due to budgetary concerns meanwhile... in my department alone we have seven managers walking around..doing nothing!! How many VP's, Director's and consultants does TCMC have on staff? If they want to save money-it's time to trim the fat and toxic waste at the top!!!

To Tri City Employee... wrote on May 12, 2007 10:01 AM:...you are obviuosly very misinformed or simply ignorant about this incident (which indicated you don't work there much). These nurses are not terminated until all the facts are examined. Their union should aid in that process and if the facts don't support termination, they shouldn't be terminated.

Legal Lab Nerd wrote on May 12, 2007 10:07 AM:There is no lawsuit here except for the patients whose privacy was breached. There is more to this than meets the eye. Be sure of it. Those nurses knew better and deserve some punishment, firing I'm not so sure.

Concerned Businessman wrote on May 12, 2007 11:21 AM:If Gonzalez had not fired these people he would have been raked over the coals. He fires them and he gets raked over the coals. I think he ought to get paid more than he does for having to put up with the Monday Morning Quarterbacks in this District that couldn't run a popcorn stand, but think they can run a hospital...and that includes Director Sterling, who thinks she is helping this community by destroying the good done by Tri City Medical Center, its leadership and its staff. In doing so, she hurts all of us in this District. Since we are talking about firing people, is there some way the District can fire her?

JS wrote on May 12, 2007 11:58 AM:Having once worked for a private "library service" (a euphemism for intelligence gathering) I can attest that people can get most any information they want, for a price. As for cell phones, all employers, schools and institutions should gather them at the door each day. There is no need for people who are supposed to be working or studying to have them. during those hours.

To UNION PRESIDENT wrote on May 12, 2007 12:17 PM:Now it's Bush's fault? Please tell me you are not really the union president. Someone with such severe BDS (Bush Derangement Syndrome) should not head an organization that supposedly represents ALL nurses.

Jay wrote on May 12, 2007 12:22 PM:First of all and outside souce needs to come in and investigate to make sure that these employees weren't taking picture of something the hospital was trying to hide. I have had serval stays in Tri-City and have some doubt about some of the Nurses and Doctors. I also know serval people that work there and they have concern about some of the things that go on around there. Now if in fact the outside source finds these people to be in the wrong then they should be fired and never allowed to work in the medical field ever.

From a TriCity Employee wrote on May 12, 2007 12:25 PM:We have had cell phones with picture taking capabilities for at least two years and have yet learned how to do so. If I want to take a picture I will use a regular camera and if I want to make a phone call I will use my cell phone. I'm not aware if there is a cell phone on the market without the picture taking feature. With the recent episode at Virginia Tech no one denies the importance of instant communication. Am I subject to termination just because my cell phone has this feature? By the way the first I heard of this story was in this morning's paper. Please don't prejudge TriCity's employees. We all work hard to contribute our particular skill and expertise for the over all benefit and service for our clients.

There is no. wrote on May 12, 2007 12:35 PM:Privacy anymore. The gov't has Total Information Awareness (TIA). Big brother is watching. All the time. If you don't have anything to hide why would you mind?

Hey Joe... wrote on May 12, 2007 12:45 PM:How in the heck does this have to do with hospital marketing? Are you suggesting that the hospital squash a story like this...a story that, I'm sure, was leaked by the Union. If the hospital squashed the story, you would be online accusing them of hiding important facts. In one breath you ask the Union pres to "keep the truth in the forefront", and then proceed to compare Tri-City to a Cloak and Dagger story. That analogy would be comical if the motivation behind it wasn't so completely rooted in the hatred you feel towards the administration. At what point will you get over it (loss in the election, fired from TCMC, etc.), stop the nonsense and address real issues.

Union Gone Wild! wrote on May 12, 2007 1:01 PM:Just a few questions for TCMC RN. What do you mean that patient's privacy was not violated? Would your right to privacy be violated if an OR nurse took a picture of your naked body, then passed it around to staff to joke about? Wouldn't you think that nurse failed miserably in upholding what should have been her first priority-patient advocacy? That's the problem with the union. Forget about the fact that the nurses' actions were so totally wrong; so contrary to the values a nurse should have; so incredibly stupid. Instead, transfer the blame to administration. They're always wrong. They're always the bad guys. Well, I have news for you. The administration was 100% right in their actions. That employee deserves to be fired. I wouldn't want that employee touching any family member of mine since that person obviously has no regard for the patient or the patient's rights.

Concerned Vista Res wrote on May 12, 2007 2:55 PM:Let's try to keep our attention on the issue & not make this a political platform for an anti bond campaign or whether you think the salary paid to TCMC's CEO is excessive...which by the way is not $550k...you clearly have him confused with PPH's. The staff who breached the patient's privacy and, more importantly, their trust deserved no less than their apparent fate. These are the people who are repeatedly referred to as victims of administration's wrath. NOT....these are the professionals (or lack thereof) who betrayed the public TCMC serves. And, if that's not enough...to the TCMC RN...get your facts straight...2P was not closed!! As a long time resident of North County, I need TCMC & someday you may too. Be careful what you wish for!!!

.me wrote on May 12, 2007 3:10 PM:this is a joke!! what happened?? this a very small part of the story... you would be very suprised...another cover up by our fine medical center.. the real truth will come out.. insider!!!!

BobbyJoe wrote on May 12, 2007 3:40 PM:In order to help preserve confidentiality of patient records, Pam Dixon, president of the World Privacy Forum, should begin by stopping the practice of requesting social security numbers on ANY hospital addmission forms. Social security numbers are not to be used for identification other than by financial institutions.

Social Security Number wrote on May 12, 2007 5:11 PM:If someone asks you for your social security number you do not have to give it to them. There are very, very few instances when a government agency can ask for them. A hospital certainly cannot.

Greg wrote on May 12, 2007 7:34 PM:why on earth are cameras allowed in any private patient area? who cares if they're installed in the cellular phone, that's the user's problem not the hospitals. Confiscate cameras in areas where common sense says they shouldn't be allowed.

Saddened Nurse wrote on May 13, 2007 12:09 AM:This is a sad day for TCMC and the employees that have been dedicated to the medical center. You work so hard for the reputation of this facility for something like this to happen. I am embarrassed as to what my colleges have done. As health care providers we are there to help and protect those that we serve. The jobs that we have are demanding and stressful but there is no excuse for the behavior of these few individuals. This episode has damaged the hospitals reputation immensely. As for as Concerned Vista Res wrote that 2P has not been closed, I must beg to differ with you. It is closed, I have many friends from that floor each day that go to work not knowing where they will be floated to or canceled for that shift. This too has been a devastating blow to a fine group of nurses who once had a family away from home who now comes to work to see where they will be plugging the holes for the day. Moral is at an all time low. It is going to take a lot to make up for what has happened to this institution. As far as another bond goes..... Good luck, it may never happen now!

Vista School Bus Driver wrote on May 13, 2007 8:55 AM:One of the very last pictures of my Aunt that was taken was with a camera phone at Tri-City. I'm sorry that you think that they should be banned, but it was the only way we could send a last minute picture to all the kids. The phones all have their uses, and this worked for us. The medical staff and nurses were very understanding and wonderful. They are worth much more then what they are paid. I'm glad it was there for us.

Union Gone Wild! wrote on May 13, 2007 9:58 AM:To forced to be union: Rose Ann DeMoro has described registered nurses as the "last line of defense for patients". It will be very interesting to see whether CNA really believes this or if it's just another line for them. We'll also see if CNA is at TriCity to improve the quality of care for patients or if they are just interested in maintaining their $700,000 yearly windfall.

TCMC RN wrote on May 13, 2007 10:01 AM:To Union Gone Wild- As a nurse who is liscensed to practice in several states, worked in different facilities over 20 years-never have I thought or felt it would be acceptable to photograph,copy medical records, laugh or joke about anyone under my care or anyone elses for that matter. Never have I stated that these nurses or workers were not entirely responsible for their unacceptable behavoir. It's a no brainer-your outta here-end of story. What I am disgusted with is Administration's handling of the incident in the news!! In response to your remark regarding violation of patient privacy-it is stated in the above article by our CNO(Ellerbe, and also backed up by DHS etc.. Since neither you or I have first hand knowledge of the facts surrounding this case on who, what, when, where, how,why....The comment made should be limited. As each nurse is responsible and has to answer for his or her own behavoir and practice- so does ADMINISTRATION. Since you don't work at TCMC - you could not possibly know how they treat employees or why NURSES felt they needed a UNION. This is by far the worst place I have ever worked-where management has such disregard for their workers!!! Yes, I still come here everyday trying to make a difference for my patients and fellow workers-striving for change!!!

TCMC RN wrote on May 13, 2007 10:25 AM:To Concerned Vista RES- What would you like to call it?? Staff cutts and hiring freezes are taking place right now!! TCMC will not be able to "sugar coate" various happenings for much longer. They are having trouble paying bills and only recieved 0.30 cents on the dollar reimbursement for services rendered last month!!! Nurses will be joining the "Housing Foreclosure Lines" as administration continues to line their pockets. Million dollar physician recruitment deals gone bad, hundreds of thousands of dollars spent on consultants and surveys all to tell administration how to do their jobs-"PASS THE EMESIS BAG." THIS IS NOT ROCKET SCIENCE PEOPLE!! I am entitled to my opinion-Administration is not doing the job they were entrusted to do!!! CEO ran his previous hospital into the ground doing very same thing-Enjoy the show!! If people think they can just go to another hospital for care-GOOD LUCK- they can not handle the influx of patients!!! You think ER wait times are bad now-JUST WAIT!!! b5hje

Union Gone Wild! wrote on May 13, 2007 1:03 PM:To TCMC RN: I was responding to your statement "Administration has to take it further despite the fact that patient's privacy was not violated." I strongly disagree. That patient's privacy was indeed violated and a nurse at TCMC egregiously violated the nurse-patient relationship. Period. End of story. Whatever beef you have with administration is a completely different story. It doesn't do the union image any favors to blame this on administration.

Union Gone Wild! wrote on May 13, 2007 1:15 PM:To TCMC RN: BTW, I know exactly how TCMC treats its employees since I've been there for over 15 years. They're no better nor worse than most other hospitals. However you seem to ignore the fact that there are nurses that did not and do not want to be a part of the union, but you were more than happy to take away their choice. Perhaps that's another reason morale is at an all time low. Not only do we have an unresposive administration, now the union's continuing hostility toward administration and anyone who does not support the union 110% is only making matters at the hospital much worse. Congratulations on your victory!!

Tri City Security Guards. . . Admin Hired Guns wrote on May 13, 2007 6:27 PM:The last time Tri City's security guard implicated an employee...the employee and the Union took Tri City and the security guard to the court room. OUTCOME: The Union and the employee prevailed against Tri City even though the witness-security guard's statements were coached by a Tri City administrator sitting in the audience. This event is well documented by the Vista Court Judge and the two attorneys representing both parties. BOTTOMLINE: Tri City security are paid employees or contractors...either way there's a conflicting interest to preserve there own cash cow!

TCMC RN wrote on May 13, 2007 6:53 PM:To Union Gone Wild- If you've been @TCMC for 15yrs-it has been a long time since you've worked someplace else. You are disqualified to report on current conditions in other facilities. Are you in management or just a managers pet? At least we agree on one thing-ADMINISTRATION IS AND ALWAYS HAS BEEN UNRESPONSIVE TO EMPLOYEES!! I chose to stand up and do something about it while you just report for duty. This is one of the reasons that nursing remains in the dark ages as a profession of >90%women. Over the years if we did not have nurses who stood tall and took a stand-I wonder if we wouldn't still be bowing and giving up our chairs at the desk to physicians when they arrived on the unit!!! Yes, UNIONIZATION of NURSES as a profession is a victory for all!!!

TCMC RN wrote on May 13, 2007 6:59 PM:To Tri City Security Guards- The union has only really been in place at the medical center since Mar. 15th when we had our second vote to certify the union. I know of no other incident other than the current one. You must be mistaken.

Personal accountability! wrote on May 13, 2007 7:24 PM:How suprising is it.... "The Union" wanting to look like the hero's. It's always "the manager's fault" "it's admin's fault" "it's Mr. Gonzales' fault". Quit blaming everyone else for the failures of some very irresponsible people who must be held accountable for their actions. Is your goal to prevent an entire community from trusting OUR hospital? That's all you'll accomplish should you keep it up, cause we all know the union has plenty of cash to throw around.

Union Gone Wild! wrote on May 13, 2007 8:30 PM:To TCMC RN: First of all, nurses can work in more than one hospital at a time. Second, I don't need a union to speak for me. I'm able to speak up for patients and coworkers just fine on my own and without treating those who don't agree with me like enemies. Third, your response is a perfect example of how the union treats nurses who don't toe the union line. Perhaps you should look within yourself to find one reason why morale is so low. I'll let you have the last word, since I have no wish to continue in an uncivil discussion. Have a good evening.

Tri City Security Guards. . . Admin Hired Guns wrote on May 13, 2007 9:07 PM:CNA has not been the only union effort to organize at Tri City... CNA is however the only one to succeed over the years. Previously, SEIU Local 2028, CWA, and United Nurses pursued Tri City employees (2000-2003) but it was SEIU who went to court to defend an employees rights in 2003...The aforementioned event is well documented!

Tri City Security Guards. . . Admin Hired Guns wrote on May 13, 2007 9:37 PM:Looks like a pattern of practice and behavior by Admin's hired guns (I mean security guards)... they're in closed session (even though its against the Brown Act), they're in ER, they're everywhere working for CEO Gonzo to keep things quiet because the truth will set us free (of the likes of Gonzo)...

Shortages, Cutbacks, Layoffs wrote on May 13, 2007 9:59 PM:I can see it now...prepare for the Gonzo raise set as the leader of the pack to ensure his lackys will get their big pay raises too. Being Gonzo's 20 year cultivated friendships, these recruits are finally getting the pay off - big time at Tri City. You'd think with a shortage of nurses Tri City taxpayers would have a sterling team with brass balls running the hospital instead, we got a golden team whose management cannot do the job without more consultants while falling short of meeting patients' standards of care.

Paul Sisson wrote on May 14, 2007 10:41 AM:Hello. This is Paul Sisson. I would like to invite any of the hospital employees fired by Tri-City to contact me and tell me their side of the story. I can be reached at (760) 901-4087 or psisson@nctimes.com Thank you.

Joe B to to Joe B wrote on May 14, 2007 10:50 AM:I have always kept the truth about the hospital "up in front." The administration really tries to keep the fight going, not I. As for me losing the election... Did I, or was this a ploy to make sure the bond failed... hmmm. Not sure. But trust me, not winning the board seat actually save me a great deal of heart ache. As for getting over it, I will protect this community until the end of time. I tried to extend an olive branch to TCMC, but they decided against it.

Another TCMC Employee wrote on May 14, 2007 10:52 AM:This kind of stuff happens all the time at every facility in the country. This has nothing to do with the quality or integrity of TCMC and it should not reflect poorly on their employees. I feel that TCMC has made an example out of these people and shows that we will not tolerate that kind of behavior. I work here at TCMC and I have been a patient here as well (as well as a lot of my family members). For the people who are referring to the bond not passing - You should educate yourself better because you really don't know what you are talking about. Don't jump on the band wagon unless you know what you are talking about! By allowing the bond to pass, you will be keeping our much needed local hospital. We have to have our hospital up to earthquake code by the year 2015. Do you know how many people utilize this hospital? Well, nobody will if the bond does not pass. So, for all of you who come to the ER, etc... vote no and then you will have to travel to Scripps or Palomar. Hopefully you'll make it there on time!

Joe B to Joe wrote on May 14, 2007 11:00 AM:These issues I bring up are as real as they get. It may be bad for the hospital for me to bring it up, but that is too bad. They could have settled, they didn't. As for firing me,hahahha,The EEOC found them at fault. I make $40,000 more a yr not working there, improving another company. It's their loss, it most certainly is not mine. They can't get a bond passed.

I left Tri-City in 1985 wrote on May 14, 2007 11:01 AM:and boy am I glad. I certainly wouldn't want to work with the likes of TCMC RN. Could we be any more hostile? I have to wonder why administration is non responsive and doesn't want to work with the staff, doesn't sound to me like anyone would be interested in working with those attitudes. Thanks, but no thanks, I'll go to Palomar.

new TCMC RN wrote on May 14, 2007 11:13 AM:To Union gone wild: WOrk somewhere else. Union is the best thing that ever happened for TCMC RN's. I really think it's time for you to leave and we wish you would. We dont need the negativity right now!! I'm am there for the patients, and will continue to be for I long I can deal with you. Go somewhere more negative that fits your personality. If we cant stand together.........

Spectator wrote on May 14, 2007 12:15 PM:I have read all of the comments posted and it is sad that the focus was shifted from Patient Privacy to the Union and Administration. If these employees violated the Patients Privacy Rights then they should be discplined appropriately. Airing TCMC dirty laundry in public will not help this hospital or the community.

new TCMC RN wrote on May 14, 2007 1:36 PM:I agree, this issue is patient privacy. We as nurses swore to protect our patients in every way. What these individuals did was wrong. Lets be known as the hospital that doesn't put up with this behavior. We are better than this and patients come first. BY firing these individuals it speaks to our patients that TCMC doesn't put up with this and doesn't take it lightly. How does the Union fit into this issue? I was commenting on the negativity of this obvious unhappy nurse. There are alot of highly skilled nurses that love their jobs at TCMC.

sick and tired.... wrote on May 14, 2007 1:49 PM:to death of hearing joe b talk like he is the savior of every individual ever. dude, .... GET OVER IT AND MOVE ON! everyone knows thats why you were trying to get on the board and saying all these things. is your new high paying job blogging on a newspaper website all hours of the day and night? ... get up, go to work, go to another hospital, go home and .... do you really think the community likes to hear you ramble on like your some big tough guy? if they did, dont you think they would have voted for you?! give it a rest already. you are ruining good reading. ... geesh! wait...i can see it now.......no one is impressed. no one cares to hear you or her all the time for that matter ms. tri city blues....this blog is for you too! put a cork in it!

To Sick and Tired from Joe B wrote on May 14, 2007 3:04 PM:HAHAHAHAHA, S.A.T. you are funny. I like you. Let's see: Coming from political obscurity, I received 14,000+ votes by spending 0.0001 per vote. So my "rhetoric alone," I was able to yield quite a bit of these "non-caring" individuals to my side. I'm proud to help these people. I look forward to doing more things. I was released from Tri-City, oh, it cost them more than it cost me. In fact, it gave me a lot. Thanks Tri-City!

irish one wrote on May 14, 2007 3:21 PM:I have been with TCMC for 10+ years and never ever have I heard anything so dispicable. How dare these "Professionals" (nurses)as they like to call themselves violate any patient privacy. Nurses feel like they are the last line of defense for the patient or a patient advocate, please don't defend or advocate for me if that is truely how you advocate for your patients!! You feel they did nothing wrong, what a poor individual are you! Where is your compasion????What has happened to their INTEGRITY... oh that's right, they don't have any, they must have confused it with their disgusting sense humor. Without the handful of rotten individuals, TCMC is a good hospital and does provide wonderful patient care. I have been a patient here many times myself and have always been cared for respectfully and compationately. I have also had a family member that was here as a patient and she recieved wonderful care, more than what I can say for Palomar Medical Center. This is what is it, it's about the Federal violation these nurses made. They got what they deserved, they were fired and hopefully lost their licensure. For those affected by their own stupidity which resulted in being terminated..GOOD... find another shoulder to cry on because your tears are not welcome here. When you can learn to RESPECT a persons privacy, especially a patients.. then others might be more inclined to console you some. You all really need to do some soul searching for the horrible, disgusting, discpicable actions you took. You are supposed to be adults.... instead you act like little immature school children!

Peppermint Pattie wrote on May 14, 2007 5:17 PM:First and foremost-not one of the previous bloggers defended the actions of these employees or the decision to fire them!!! I work at TCMC and I am appauled. I am pro-union because I have experienced first hand and been witness to poor treatment from management to employees. I have also seen that reporting incidents to HR or hire level managers does nothing but make you a target. No one is getting the bigger picture of what is happening at the medical center!!! They are not paying their bills on time, flexing per-diem staff and are a reported 2 million in the hole!!! So I am sorry to report to Union Gone Wild and others that Administration is the only one who can carry the blame for this one!!

TCMC RN wrote on May 14, 2007 5:59 PM:BTW- Hot off the press- TCMC today has made a decision to get rid of Charge Nurses in favor of more management positions. Maybe Union Gone Wild can take one of those positions and she won't have to pay her dues. If she could see beyond the garden gate maybe she would understand that the bottom line affects us ALL. Regarding the above issue and article: cell phone event was not an RN and latter was a picture of an X-RAY (skeleton)and contained no patient information. Both wrong but before you send all of us to the gallows-investigate!! NEXT BOARD meeting is on 5/24 and every nurse should be there for the vote on GONZO's next raise and personally thank him for his plan to down size the nursing staff and hire more management personnel. We all know what a GREAT JOB management does in providing care to our patients!! HOPE YOU CAN COME!!!

EX -TCMC RN wrote on May 14, 2007 6:33 PM:Irish has already fired the nurses at tcmc without knowing the facts and without a fair hearing. Tell the truth, your a manager at tcmc aren't you?

to new TCMC RN wrote on May 14, 2007 7:07 PM:You provide yet another fine example of how the union treats those who prefer to think for themselves and who refuse to blindly swallow the union propaganda hook, line and sinker.

TCMC RN wrote on May 14, 2007 7:22 PM:To EX-TCMC RN-Thank-you-"INOCCENT UNTIL PROVEN GUILTY"!! Investigate, gather facts and then make sure appropritate action is taken. TCMC has already tried you in the court of public opinion by leaking the story to the press!!! In fact while hearings to gather information and facts were going on CNO(Ellerbe) was on the front lawn with the press "shouting guilty". Irish should search out the truth!! CNO's comment should have been:"No Comment-incident is still under investigation and appropriate actions have been taken at this time!!!

TCMC RN wrote on May 14, 2007 7:34 PM:to comment 5/14/07@7:07pm- "LAY OFF MANAGEMENT'S KOOL-AIDE IT'S ALREADY STUNTED YOUR GROWTH!!! This is not UNION PROPAGANDA-IT'S REALITY!!! You say you care about TCMC and your fellow co-workers but all you can do is talk about how the rest of us are not meeting your needs!!! We had our vote and the majority of us felt it was necessary to have representation due to problems. This is a democracy and you are the minority-GET the message. "Majority" of Nurses were not happy with working conditions or pay and tired of how management was handling their issues or concerns!!!

MD(previously worked at TCMC) wrote on May 14, 2007 8:03 PM:All health care personnel with any shred of ethics and personal accountability/responsiblity understand exactly what is demanded of them under HIPPA and understood what was asked of them prior to HIPPA. Dr. Gonzalez is correct--there should be an absolute policy of Zero Tolerance and EVERY hospital should pursue it with the due diligence of TCMC even if it disturbs the unions or the fragile sensibilities / unwarranted paranoia of some members of the general public.

To MD wrote on May 14, 2007 10:16 PM:Thank heavens there is someone with a shred on common sense and integrity in their comments. Isn't it interesting that Channel 10 news tonight confirmed in an interview with Scripps officials that they have a zero tolerance policy and have fired employees for inappropriate use of phone cameras in the work place.

Shocked RN wrote on May 14, 2007 10:19 PM:I can't believe what I'm reading. You people are ridiculous. Bottom line, they broke the rules and deserved to be fired. Healthcare workers are "advocates" not "predators". Stop all your bantering and go to bed.

An Investigation or a Sham wrote on May 15, 2007 4:04 AM:Let the feds do their job as an objective, unbias, neutral investigator of HIPPA. Of course Tri City doesn't want the feds or the state involved - because Tri City's standing is probably very weak.

TCMC Emp wrote on May 15, 2007 6:09 AM:I agree with Shocked RN. The rest of you need to get a life.

shake'n but optimistic wrote on May 15, 2007 7:43 AM:I am a tri-city employee who lives in this community. My family as well as myself have been paitents at Tri-City and have recieved excellent care from this facility. I am sadden by the news that some of our nurse's forgot that they play an important role to this community and acted unprofessionally. I would like to take this opportunity to apologize to this community. I hope Tri-City can rebuild trust and as a Tri-City employee will do my part to facilitate this. There is no excuse for what happen just what we can do from now on to prevent it from happening again. Lets us go on from here. God Bless

irish one wrote on May 15, 2007 7:51 AM:To EX-TCMC RN, no sorry to disapoint you I am not a manager or in management position here at TCMC. I am a staff support member. The only people to blame are the individuals who did what they did and got caught. If you see nothing wrong with taking a picture with your cell phone of someone else's private business, then just like the individuals who were fired, your integrity and everything that goes with it, sadly has been seriously compromised!

Proud Employee of Tri-City Medical Center wrote on May 15, 2007 8:12 AM:As an employee of Tri-City Medical Center we are all saddened by the incidents that occurred that have resulted in the "intent to terminate" 10 employees. What saddens me more than this, is that members of the union and community members don't feel that what has been done was correct or stating that it was "too harsh." Confidentialy laws went into effect in 2004 and are very strict. I pose the question, if the files viewed and pictures taken were their medical record, would their opinion about this be different. One of our primary responsibilities is to provide safe patient care and encompassed in this is that all patient information be considered confidential. The actions of these 10 employees is a clear violation of this law. I would have hoped to see the union stand by the hospital in regards to this incident and the 5 nurses that they represent. There needs to be some direction from the union that though they represent the nurses that "patient safety & confidentiality" are their utmost concern and they to (the union) will not accept this type of behavior. I hope that in time the community and union staff will realize that what was done was for "patient safety & confidentiality" which is our job as Tri-City Medical Center employees.

To Joe Brown wrote on May 15, 2007 8:26 AM:Glad you found another job - but I think you have a memory problem. EEOC found in favor of Tri-City. Glad you're gone. Everybody has the right to believe what they want about Dr. G. But in this situation, the employees were solely at fault and I am glad they're gone.

EX -TCMC RN wrote on May 15, 2007 9:35 AM:Funny that no MD in the ER at TCMC saw anything. I heard they had a meeting to say to the whole ER group,that they saw nothing.Circle the wagons ,NO COMMENT,NO PUNISHMENT,oh excuse me no doctor would break the law at TCMC. DO you remember the quote"DON'T call me after 12 at nite for any reason, I don't care what you do".Rememder they are friends with ART.

RN wrote on May 15, 2007 9:38 AM:HEY MD why did you leave TCMC,to hard for you?can you care for an ICU pt?

sick and tired to joe b wrote on May 15, 2007 11:20 AM:glad to get you laughing at yourself, like everyone else. welcome to the real world. who cares about how many votes you got-you still lost. who cares about how much money you spent-it was still a waste. as for yeilding individuals, think about that: you have to spend time and money to try and convince people to think your way. you are not trying to help people. you are just trying get votes to "get back" at TCMC because you have an issue you just can't let go of. if people want to use the hospital, let them. if they don't, fine. they do have a mind of thier own. we dont need you to think for us or tell us how to feel. the fate of the hospital is it's own. LET IT GO! why are you really holding on so hard? you know the answer to that, and we all know it has nothing to do with you wanting to help the community! it's you wanting to help yourself. as for it costing TCMC more to let you go...i would pay to make you go away too! these "i care", "i want to help" "i want to do more" lies....please! You are acting out only to benefit yourself. people will not vote for you to help you get revenge. the community knows the real issues at hand and have no interest in helping you to retaliate like you are a child. if your intentions were to really help the community, then you would have been voted in. you may think we can be swayed into thinking your way because you paid a few pennies here and there, but we stand as a community and cannot be bought by the likes of someone like you. if you want to help the community, be quiet and let us decide on our own. instead of trying to tell us what to think and what to do, think it and do it by yourself since it is for yourself alone. stop trying to brainwash. your opinion is your own, not everyones. i speak as a community member, as an individual, and as someone who is still sick and tired of you.

To Sick and Tired wrote on May 15, 2007 5:52 PM:It is obvious by your answer that you don't think I sway peoples opinion, and then you accuse me of doing so--I think you called it brain-washing. SO which is it, did I or didn't I. Your barbs about losing is really telling. Oh by the way, the EEOC did decide in my favor, they just did not fine TCMC.

Carey wrote on May 16, 2007 1:57 AM:When these employee's started with Tri-City they signed a Hippa form- they knew what the punishment would be. Shame on them. Oh and by the way why when one hospital goes down- they have to try to bring the other hospitals down- mentioning how they are much better then Palomar Hospital- get a life!

Shake'n but Optimistic wrote on May 16, 2007 6:57 PM:It seems that many of these comments are directed to the management of TCMC by Union employee's that are still disatisfied with what is going on with TCMC. Your contracts were ratified and the Union is at Tri-City. Why is it that you are still complaining? If these employee's believe that they did nothing wrong then they can seek representation from the Union right? The Union is there to protect people from unfair practices and I believe the nurse's also claimed to improve patient care? What they did was wrong. What we must do is protect the patients. Even if that means some of our fellow employee's, friends and family must leave. If we do not have trust from our community how can we serve them?

TCMC RN wrote on May 16, 2007 8:26 PM:To Shake'n-since the inception of our union management has stepped up their aggression towards nurses. The union as applied is "the nurses collectively at TCMC". CNA is actively working with us on violations by management of the contract!! As with anything only some of the nurses are willing to speak up while others are complacent and afraid for their jobs!!! TCMC is having financial difficulties to put it mildly (3 mo.'s behind in paying vendors). They are cutting staff, closing units, denying vacations etc. How can we work to improve patient care if we are running on bare minimum staffing levels and not getting breaks. In fact today our manager announced that we would be eliminating charge RN positions and hiring managers in their place. We have 7 managers in our unit alone-we are micro managed to death-money is tight-why would we hire more managers?

Hospital employee wrote on May 16, 2007 9:55 PM:Trust me i know security at all hospitals is not a top priority. It is totally obvious. At night security has to answer to a nursing supervisor. That is unacceptable since these people have no knowledge of how security works. I am also sick and tired of all the liberal unions as well. PPH cannot even have an employee parking policy. Every time you try tocreat e apolicy they whine to the unions. And another thing. Our hospitals run out of money cuase they only cater ot the CEO's and tiop administrators. PPH CEO makes about $550,00 a yr and they just gave him a $160 thousand bonus. No wonder why employees dont get paid what they are worth.

Shake'n but optimistic wrote on May 16, 2007 10:16 PM:I am fully aware of the changes that Tri-City is undergoing. Believe me when I say I get to here both sides complaining. The fact still remains that the nurses's involved in this matter betrayed the trust of the patients. If the Nurse's make Tri-City what it is then what are we saying to the community when we allow this type of behavior to continue? Union or no Union we must maintain some level of standards.

rn wrote on May 17, 2007 9:53 AM:Alot of blogs are from anti-union crybabies that just don't get it.As the hospital falls apart around you ,you still finds ways to blame the union.you trusted employee or lap dog. get a life,and start pating your dues.

Joe B wrote on May 17, 2007 5:12 PM:If the hospital's administration really, really wanted to improve the hospital, they would have resolved many issues that are out there in the community. One of the first thing they would have done is bring in the opposition in its entirety and resolved all of the issues. If the hospital was truly important to the administration, they would swallow their pride.

Shake'n but Optimistic wrote on May 17, 2007 5:17 PM:Who is blaming the Union? Not only RN's lost their jobs when this incident took place. What I am saying is this is not a Union matter but an internal issue that had to be taken care of whether you are Union or not. If you read your blogs the Union is the one crying foul. Pick your battles. This is not one of them. There are so many others that need all of our attentions.

Stick to the facts! wrote on May 17, 2007 6:02 PM:TCMC is NOT hiring more managers. The charge positions are being eliminated while the shift supervisor positions are being created. In most cases, charge nurses will fill the new positions; however all nursing staff are welcome to apply for the positions. Please stick to the facts.

Stick to the facts! wrote on May 17, 2007 6:12 PM:My understanding is that 4P is being moved to 2P and the telemetry unit is being expanding to 4P. You said units are being closed. Which ones? Please stick to the facts.

To rn wrote on May 17, 2007 6:20 PM:Get your facts straight! The majority of whining is from pro-union nurses. The hostility and childish name calling is also coming from pro-union nurses. No surprise there as that is how most unions function.

Shake'n but Optimistic wrote on May 17, 2007 6:42 PM:Are we still on the same subject? I thought we were commenting about the above story of Tri-City employee's who may have broken privacy rules?

Jaycee wrote on May 18, 2007 6:38 PM:Why would someone take a photo of a patient's xray? It is certainly unidentifiable, without the name. I worked as an RN at TCMC for 20 years. There are many more excellent nurses than awful ones; management is another matter. They are trying to shut the union down. Does the CEO deserve the salary he gets?.....I don't think so. Something stinks at TCMC, and it is not being reported.

RN--- wrote on May 19, 2007 8:21 AM:From the Story--- Alan Zamansky, of the California Office of HIPAA Implementation, said Friday that just because there was no name or identification number attached to the X-ray does not necessarily mean that it could not be attached to a person. "If a person knew that someone had been seen with that condition that was shown on the X-ray at that particular time, then it is possible there could be an identification," Zamansky said.-- How is a person identified by an x-ray with no name, no number, no date, no time, no location? How is this a HIPAA violation? X-rays with no patient identification are published routinely in numerous medical and non-medical journals and websites with no need for HIPAA violation concerns.

TCMC RN wrote on May 19, 2007 7:41 PM:To stick to the facts-shift supervisor positions will be "management positions." Staff RN's will only step up in charge nurse roles for relief. Buyer beware as the positions will be outside the protection of the "Union." I am not willing to take that kind of risk in this atmosphere!!

TCMC RN wrote on May 19, 2007 7:45 PM:Maybe so, I will verify with union leadership. In the meantime what happened to those employees and nurses who worked on the unit? 4P nurses are chemo trained and that requires addl skill and one needs ACLS to work on telemetry. What are these nurses doing in meantime and will there be openings for them?

Check Out May 19 NCTimes Article wrote on May 20, 2007 12:29 PM:Union:One Of Five Nurses Reinstated. How interesting the NCTimes buried the news article on their internet news... and guess what...NO Bloggers. Why didn't the NCTimes report the facts about the doctor(s) who were involved with the incident rather than take the PIO-Tri City spin? Those doctors were just as culpable for what they did. It is unethical even if it did not break any laws just Tri City's policies. Oh yea Tri City is knows very well about ethics.

Can-Em wrote on May 21, 2007 11:48 AM:Tri-City is in the middle of staffing cut backs - how convenient that this incident happened now. Perfect timing. Six months ago - there would have been no punitive action against them. But now, because TCMC spent too much money on trying to having this bond passed - they are looking to terminate people. My husband has worked there for 20 years and had to RE-INTERVIEW for his job. Let's CAN Gonzoles and send him back to wherever he came from.

Can-Em wrote on May 21, 2007 11:53 AM:Tri-City will be laying off 75 people. These 10 were innocent victims of Gonzoles master plan.

TCMC RN wrote on May 21, 2007 4:29 PM:To Can-Em- It's more than the money spent on trying to pass a failed bond!!! They are not paying their bills/vendors. Word on the street is GE(General Electric)just shut off the hospital's credit. Every employee should attend the board meeting later this month to see how they vote on GONZO's raise and speak to other issues (it is open to the public). This is a public hospital owned by the citizens of Oceanside, Carlsbad and Vista... we need to hold these goof-offs accountable!

Wow... wrote on May 24, 2007 3:34 PM:"Stick to the facts," why don't you just sign as DMS? ;)Amazing how the union has become the issue in this blog when we weren't even mentioned in the article. For the record, all views are welcomed by our union. If you are a staff nurse, why don't you come to a meeting? Sally, Kate, Liz, Bernie and others have joined us before and we respectfully, professionally agree to disagree on several issues. The fact that nearly 2/3 of the nurses voted for the union doesn't mean the minority is left out. Frankly, many RNs who voted no have since become quite active. The small group of well known anti union nurses has sought out answers and they get them. So where this accusation of the union not accepting you unless you're 110% CNA is totally unfounded. We maintain a professional repoir and I am confident that these professionals would say the same thing if you asked them. Also, the accused nurses have not released statements and none of you, save DMS, know any of the story, so please don't assume that you know what happened. So many assumptions....The union remains committed to venerating the staff nurse as the patient's advocate and care provider. We believe whole-heartedly in protecting patients and their confidential information. We are also committed to ensuring that each RN is afforded due process and treated fairly. Promoting patient rights and ensuring fair treatment of Registered Nurses are not mutually exclusive concepts.

muscleman wrote on Feb 26, 2008 1:54 AM:This happens all the time...