Community Hospital Responds to Allegations and Court Case

Aberdeen, WA –  A Press release from Community Hospital sent late yesterday states "It was announced [Monday] that the Equal Employment Opportunity Commission has filed a lawsuit against Grays Harbor Community Hospital alleging violation of workplace harassment law."

"GHCH has a zero tolerance policy regarding any type of workplace harassment, and is committed to complying with all laws governing workplace conduct.  The Hospital has an active program in which it provides ongoing anti-harassment training to all of its employees and volunteers."

"GHCH denies any wrongdoing in connection with the claim brought by the Equal Employment Opportunity Commission. When a complaint of potential harassment was reported by a member of the Pharmacy Department about the actions of a non-supervisory co-worker in August of 2007, the Hospital immediately brought in an outside investigator to interview witnesses and report her conclusions."

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"The investigation concluded that the non-supervisory co-worker had engaged in conduct that violated the Hospital’s anti-harassment policy, and the Hospital promptly took appropriate action to remedy the situation and prevent its recurrence.  The actions taken were consistent with the Hospital’s obligations under its collective bargaining agreement. "

“In no way does Grays Harbor Community Hospital condone, or otherwise allow this type of behavior”, says Michael Fraser, Interim CEO.  “All employees are entitled to work in a physically and emotionally safe environment.”

"The law provides that when a report of harassment is promptly investigated and appropriate action is taken in response to the findings made in the investigation, an organization has not violated the law.  This is exactly what occurred in this case.  The Hospital therefore denies the EEOC’s allegations that it acted unlawfully, and intends to defend itself vigorously in Court. "