The death of Joan Rivers on September 4th, 2014 was a surprise to all. But what is more surprising, is what we found out had been happening during the seemingly routine procedures being performed.
Dr. Lawrence Cohen, a doctor and co-owner of the clinic, performed the routine endoscopy. However, an unknown doctor also performed an unauthorized biopsy after the procedure performed by Cohen. Not only was the procedure unauthorized, but the unnamed doctor wasn't even certified to work in the clinic. And if that couldn't get any worse, it has been reported that one of the doctors took a "selfie" while Rivers was under anesthesia.
After the biopsy was performed, Rivers went into cardiac arrest. She was taken to the hospital, put on life support, and passed away on September 4th, 2014. What is interesting here is what has taken place since Rivers passed away. Nothing has been said about the supposed "selfie" nor has it surfaced on the internet, but statements have been made by the clinic and by the New York State Department of Health. When asked about the "selfie" which was taken during the procedure, Yorkshire Endoscopy replied saying, "Yorkshire has said and still says that a biopsy of the vocal cords was never attempted or done at its site ever..." I think it is interesting how the question wasn't even answered. The clinic chose to ignore the obvious question, which in my opinion is a bad idea. Anyone dealing with a companies public relations should be honest and open about the situation. Their response makes them look guilty by not addressing the issue. Yes, we also want to know what happened with the biopsy, and why that procedure was even performed, but that wasn't the question.
The New York State Department of Health also replied to questions regarding Rivers by saying, "The State Department of Health's investigation is ongoing. As this is an open investigation, DOH cannot comment on any specifics regarding this investigation." You see, that kind of response is much more understandable. They state what they can, but also make it known and clear to readers the reason why they can't provide additional information. The clinics method of dealing with an issue of this magnitude isn't as honorable. However, they have taken action when it comes to making sure that the doctors in question are not practicing. Cohen did step down after the board asked him to, which I do feel was a good move. This shows the public that the board of the clinic does not support the actions of these two doctors.
Overall, I think it is too soon to say what will end up happening with this case. Melissa Rivers has been talking about filing a suit against the clinic and doctors involved, but no final word has been said in regards to that.
Sources:
http://dailycaller.com/2014/09/16/joan-rivers-doctor-was-taking-selfies-before-throat-procedure/
http://www.hollywoodtake.com/joan-rivers-doctor-getting-sued-dr-gwen-korovins-selfie-unplanned-biopsy-could-lead-56628
http://www.cnn.com/2014/09/05/health/joan-rivers-death/
http://www.people.com/article/joan-rivers-doctor-allegations-yorkville-clinic
Note: This blog is for educational purposes only for a course at Brigham Young University - Idaho.
