To the Baystate Health Community of Patients, Families, Employees and local residents:
Over the course of the past week, our community has learned of serious allegations that a Baystate Health resident doctor who saw patients since July 2022 in Greenfield, Deerfield, and Springfield was arrested for possessing child pornography and miniature video recording devices.
These allegations are both heartbreaking and horrifying. While the investigation into this issue is in its early stages and there is much we do not know, Baystate Health is fully supporting law enforcement in its investigation. We also immediately placed the physician on unpaid administrative leave upon learning of law enforcement’s concerns.
Though it remains unclear where the images found by law enforcement originated, we know that members of our patient community may have questions or concerns. To both support the law enforcement investigation and the health of our community, we have been advised that concerned individuals should first contact representatives from the United States Attorney’s Office, which is handling this matter. From there, individuals will be directed to appropriate health and support resources. The USAO can be reached via email (christina.sterling@usdoj.gov) or at their hotline number, which is 617-748-3274.
Our employees at Baystate Health embrace the highest personal and professional standards and have a deep commitment to the residents of our community. We know that they are shaken by this news and concerned for their neighbors and friends. We have offered all team members access to support services that were detailed in a separate communication.
Our existing policies are designed to support and protect our minor patients. They require a guardian to be present during clinical encounters and have other protective measures. In addition, every provider undergoes extensive vetting, including reference and background checks, local and national criminal review, verification of education and training, and confirmation of credentials. We are nonetheless reexamining those policies to ensure they reflect best practices. We also are reviewing policies related to recording images during clinical encounters.
I urge any community member who may have legal concerns or information to share to contact the USAO. As additional information emerges in this case, we will keep you informed and will continue to support our local community.
Sincerely,
Mark A. Keroack, MD, MPH
President & Chief Executive Office
Baystate Health