Worker sues Ephrata hospital

EPHRATA - A former Columbia Basin Hospital employee is suing her former employer, claiming she was terminated for reporting misconduct.

Trudy A. Foreman filed a civil lawsuit in Grant County Superior Court, claiming the hospital violated public policy when she was terminated in November.

Foreman worked as a medical assistant at the hospital, when her supervisor, Michele Hansen, reportedly asked her to phone in a prescription, saying it was already approved, according to court documents. After a conversation between Foreman and another employee, Hansen allegedly became angry, telling Foreman she needed to "keep quiet."

Steven Lacy, Foreman's attorney, claims she became suspicious and contacted the doctor, who reportedly approved the prescription.

The doctor's nursing staff alleged he hadn't authorized the prescription and she reported the issue to the hospital's administration, according to court records.

Hansen reportedly started treating Foreman in an "adverse manner" and created an adverse working environment for Foreman. The treatment allegedly resulted in Foreman taking medical leave under the Family Medical Leave Act, according to the compliant. She also reportedly filed a complaint with the state Department of Health, concerning Hansen.

Department of Health spokesman Gordon MacCracken stated Hansen has no disciplinary history.

When Foreman returned to work, she claims the harassment continued.

She reportedly provided verbal and written notice of her resignation in November, according to court records. Foreman claims she was terminated from the hospital about six days prior to when she intended to resign.

Lacy claims Foreman was terminated because of the Hansen's alleged misconduct, and the misconduct violated public policy, according to the complaint.

"The discharge of the plaintiff jeopardizes the policy against procuring and possessing a legend drug or controlled substance without a valid prescription," according to the complaint.

Hospital attorney, Susan Troppmann said she couldn't comment on the case because it is new.

Lacy didn't have any additional comments about the case.

Hospital Administrator Robert Reeder could not be reached for comment.