Q: Can I sue a hospital for suspending me after reporting inappropriate behavior?
I’ve been contracted through an agency to work at a hospital care program since 2008. On January 23, 2025, I reported a physical therapist making inappropriate comments to two senior patients. Following my report, hospital management placed me under investigation and suspended my contract work with them. Despite ongoing patient complaints about this therapist for years, the hospital has ignored the issue. All communications regarding this matter have been through email, and I have not received any responses. I am no longer able to work at this hospital since January 23, 2025. What are my legal options, and do I have grounds for a lawsuit?
A:
Assuming you did not complain to the government, Washington's Healthcare Whistleblower Retaliation protections do not apply to you.
Nevertheless, depending on the nature of the inappropriate comments, you may still have a claim for wrongful termination in violation of public policy, if the comments were discriminatory or sexual in nature.
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