We want to clarify that this investigation is still in its early stages. Many aspects of the case remain unknown or are yet to be fully determined. Our understanding of the situation may evolve as more information comes to light. We appreciate your patience and understanding as we continue to analyze and address the matter.
Aren’t the others in the operating room knowledgeable or know what’s happening?
Before any procedure begins, there is a critical moment known as the “surgical time out.” This is a designated pause where everyone involved—surgeons, technicians, and all other personnel—gathers to confirm and agree on the specifics of what will take place. If there are any discrepancies or concerns at this stage, the procedure will be halted until everything is resolved. Throughout the procedure, all team members remain engaged in patient care and are expected to speak up if they have any questions or uncertainties about the process.
How is Dr. Shaknovsky still able to practice medicine?
Just because a doctor holds a medical license doesn’t mean it can be revoked immediately; there is a formal process involved. As the license holder, they have the right to contest any charges or allegations against them. However, their privileges to practice at a specific facility are a separate issue and involve their own set of considerations.
There is a website where a complaint is filed that starts an investigation. We do not know, and it is not published, as to how the investigation takes place. We do know, based on past experience, that it takes weeks or months to play out, even in clear circumstances.
To file a complaint regarding a medical provider in Florida, visit https://mqaonlinecomplaint.azurewebsites.net/StartComplaint
How does a mistake like this happen? And how does it happen more than once?
In 2023, Dr. Shaknovsky mistakenly removed part of a patient’s pancreas instead of an adrenal gland. Hospitals are responsible for risk management and credentialing, which means they must oversee the privileges granted to doctors. If a doctor makes a mistake, the hospital is obligated under Florida law to take disciplinary action and restrict their privileges to prevent a recurrence. Ultimately, the responsibility falls on the hospital.
When the state receives reports of such incidents, it can impose disciplinary measures, including fines, mandatory continuing medical education, and probation periods. The goal is to ensure that similar errors do not occur in the future. We are uncertain whether Dr. Shaknovsky faced disciplinary action for this incident, although we are aware that a confidential settlement was reached.
Under Florida law, the hospital has a duty to select and retain competent physicians who are providing in-house patient care. If this duty is not satisfied, the hospital can be held liable for negligent credentialing.
Is the state of Florida going to prosecute Dr. Shaknovsky?
As with all criminal investigations, no one knows what is going on with that process, but we understand that there is an ongoing criminal investigation.
Did Mr. Bryan have situs inversus?
Situs inversus is a congenital condition in which the visceral organs are mirrored or flipped 180 degrees from their normal position. According to the medical records, Mr. Bryan did not have this condition.
How can you do your own research on a doctor prior to undergoing any medical procedure?
To research a doctor’s background, you can utilize the following resources:
- Federation of State Medical Boards: Visit docinfo.org to check the doctor’s licensing status and any disciplinary actions across multiple states.
- American Board of Medical Specialties: Use Certification Matters to verify the doctor’s board certifications and specializations.
- Florida Department of Health – Medical Quality Assurance (MQA) License Search: Access FL MQA License Search to review the doctor’s license status and any disciplinary history in Florida.
- Florida Office of Insurance Regulation: Check the Florida Office of Insurance Regulation for malpractice claim history and insurance coverage details.
- County Clerk of Court Records: Search the local county clerk’s court records for any lawsuits or legal issues involving the doctor.
- Online Patient Review Aggregators: Explore various online review sites to read patient experiences and feedback about the doctor.
These resources can help you gather comprehensive information about a doctor’s history and qualifications, allowing you to make a more informed decision before undergoing a procedure.
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