‘Lapse’ or not, Providence doctor must be held accountable

I was deeply concerned by Providence Medical Group Chief Medical Officer Stephen Campell’s statements about not punishing Dr. James Grierson too harshly (“Marysville doctor suspended, sued over sex with Providence patient,” The Herald, Jan. 20).

Grierson reportedly acknowledged having sex with a patient. Campbell reportedly stated this was a “lapse” and “inconsistent with, what I perceived to be Dr. Grierson’s core values.” I believe having sex with a patient is unethical. I have been a patient at Providence for decades and have experienced nothing but excellent care and expect my providers to always use their best judgement and not experience a “lapse.”

I do not expect them to be perfect and as a pharmacist, I have sometimes had to help them understand medications. I hope that Campbell holds all providers to the highest ethical standards and doesn’t make excuses for them.

Traci Mitchell

Snohomish