Nurse whistleblowers cleared of charges

Two Texas nurses were cleared of criminal charges for using patient information to file a complaint against a family physician.

Two Texas nurses in February were cleared of criminal charges for using patient information to file a complaint against a family physician, according to the Texas Nurses Association.

Anne Mitchell, RN, and Vicki Galle, RN, told the Texas Medical Board last year that a physician in their county hospital e-mailed patients recommending they buy herbal medications, which he sold.

Mitchell faced a third-degree felony for "misuse of official information." Prosecutors alleged the anonymous complaint included protected patient information. The defense argued that complaints by government employees to a state agency with healthcare oversight can include patient information.

Related Videos
Claire Ernst, JD, gives expert advice
Claire Ernst, JD, gives expert advice
Claire Ernst, JD, gives expert advice
Pete Reilly gives expert advice
George Rogu, MD, gives expert advice
Juan Espinoza, MD, gives expert advice
David Feldman, MD
Stephanie Sheps, JD, gives expert advice
Related Content
© 2023 MJH Life Sciences

All rights reserved.