The Michael Skolnik Medical Transparency Act of 2010 came about after Michael Skolnik, a 22 year old nursing student, died as a result of a medical error during neurosurgery. During a CT scan, it was discovered that Michael had a three millimeter spot on his brain. His neurosurgeon suggested immediate surgery to remove what he believed was a cyst; however, after a six-hour procedure, no cyst was actually found or removed. Although Michael’s neurosurgeon claimed to have performed this specific operation many times, it was later revealed that he had only performed this procedure one time previously. As a result of that surgery, Michael’s health deteriorated substantially, ultimately resulting in his passing.
At the time, Michael’s family was unaware of the physician’s lack of experience and prior lawsuits. Had they known of the physician’s history, they would have sought a different doctor. As a result of their ordeal, and in an attempt to promote patient advocacy and transparency, Michael’s mother pushed for the legislation that became the Michael Skolnik Medical Transparency Act.
The Transparency Act, or CRS 24-34-110, requires health care professionals applying for a license, certification, or registration to disclose public disciplinary actions, restrictions/suspensions in practice, and any action that results in probation, nonrenewal, or revocation of clinical privileges. This information is maintained by the Colorado Department of Regulatory Agencies and is accessible to the public at https://www.colorado.gov/pacific/co-health-professional-check
You can read CRS 24-34-110 in its entirety at https://codes.findlaw.com/co/title-24-government-state/co-rev-st-sect-24-34-110.html.
