Former Duke anesthesiologist sues health system alleging discrimination — 5 insights

Michael Shaughnessy, MD, is suing Durham, N.C.-based Duke University over alleged discrimination, the Duke Chronicle reports.

Here's what you should know:

1. Dr. Shaughnessy has a congenital heart block requiring a permanent pacemaker. He began working at Duke as a faculty member in the anesthesiology department in 2006. The university ended his employment June 30, 2017.

2. He alleged his condition was the basis for his termination.

3. In a legal filing, Dr. Shaughnessy alleged he was told, "he could count on sabotaged letters of reference...and blacklisting at Duke Regional [Hospital] as well as the University of North Carolina or the Durham Veteran's Affairs Medical Center." Duke Regional Hospital is located in Durham, while UNC is located in Chapel Hill.

4. Dr. Shaughnessy filed a charge of discrimination with the Equal Employment Opportunity Commission. They issued him a right-to-sue notice Feb. 26.

5. He is seeking financial damages, including back pay.

Note: A representative of Duke University declined to comment on the situation.

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