Healthcare Roundup—Johns Hopkins research facilities evacuated following tuberculosis exposure

Johns Hopkins research facilities evacuated following possible tuberculosis exposure

Two cancer research buildings at Johns Hopkins in Baltimore were evacuated Thursday after a potential tuberculosis exposure.

A frozen sample of tuberculosis was spilled on a bridge linking the two buildings, and employees were in the area at the time of exposure. Hospital officials said they do not believe anyone was exposed to the bacteria and have not treated any staffers following the incident.

Landon King, M.D., executive vice dean of Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, said the employees were exposed to "a few drops" of the sample. First responders expressed concern that the bacteria could spread through the ventilation system, so Johns Hopkins took action to turn off the system, King said. (The Baltimore Sun)

Layoffs to follow Atrium Health's switch to new anesthesiology vendor

More than 150 workers could lose their job next month after Atrium Health changed to a new anesthesiology vendor, according to the health system's contract with its previous anesthesiology provider.

Atrium did not renew its contract with Southeast Anesthesiology Consultants, which ended Sunday, and has contracted instead with Scope Anesthesia of North Carolina. Due to a noncompete clause, Scope cannot hire employees who worked under Southeast, which could lead to 151 people—including 90 anesthesiologists—to lose their jobs with Southeast.

Layoffs could begin Aug. 31, though employees may not be laid off if they accept other positions. (The Charlotte Observer)

Tattoos and piercings aren't a deal breaker for patients

A new study found that patients don't view physicians with tattoos or piercings as being less professional.

More than 920 patients at Pennsylvania emergency department were surveyed, and they said that tattoos and nontraditional piercings did not make them think doctors are less competent or less approachable.

The researchers noted that while tattoos and body piercings are becoming more common, many healthcare professionals are not allowed to display them on the job. (FiercePracticeManagement)