How VA took years to disclose a troubled surgeon

DECEMBER 2009

A physician’s assistant tells the chief of staff at Togus VA Medical Center in Maine that veterans are complaining about surgeries by podiatrist Thomas Franchini.

APRIL 2010

The VA reviews 25 of his cases at random, finding significant “quality of care” issues. Togus’ medical panel places Franchini on administrative leave, while further reviews continue.

NOVEMBER 2010

Franchini resigns from the VA while under investigation. The agency does not report him to the National Practitioners Data Bank because of its policy to report only medical doctors and dentists.

JANUARY 2011

The VA prepares an investigative file for state licensing boards, but the reports are not sent because Togus’ chief of staff wants a comprehensive review. The VA eventually reviews nearly 600 Franchini surgeries.

MARCH 2012

Togus’ new acting director is briefed on the Franchini investigation and — concerned about how long it’s taking and about telling patients — he alerts regional and national VA officials.

APRIL 2012

A VA headquarters official recommends the agency develop a communication plan before telling patients, saying there is an “absence of ongoing harm” to patients.

AUG. 9, 2012

After reviewing 431 Franchini patients, the VA finds 124 suffered “potential harm” and 127 were “probably harmed” by the foot doctor.

AUG. 28, 2012

Army veteran April Wood chooses to have her left leg amputated below the knee to end her pain. The VA later determines Franchini’s two surgeries on her ankle were flawed.

NOVEMBER 2012

The VA informs five state medical boards where Franchini has been licensed about its investigation. None has taken disciplinary action.

JANUARY 2013

The VA starts informing patients, including Wood. After follow-up exams, the agency finds 88 patients suffered “actual harm” because of Franchini’s care.

TODAY

Franchini has been practicing in New York.