The AANS Board of Directors approved in August a new policy on publication of disciplinary actions. The new policy is:
This policy states the practice and intent of the AANS with respect to providing notification to other parties of disciplinary actions taken against AANS members pursuant to the AANS Bylaws. These steps will apply only after all appeals have been exhausted and a particular disciplinary matter has become final.
Letter of Censure If a member receives a letter of censure from the AANS, a summary of that matter will be printed in one or more of the AANS publications, specifying the particular matter deemed to be unprofessional or unethical and the State in which the member has his or her principal practice. The member’s name will not be included. The member’s State Licensure Authority and State Neurosurgical Society, where there is one, will be advised.
Suspension of Membership If a member is suspended by the AANS, a summary of that matter will be printed in one or more of the AANS publications, specifying the particular matter deemed to be unprofessional or unethical and the State in which the member has his or her principal practice. The member’s name will not be included. Notice of such suspension shall be sent to the State Licensure Authority and State Neurosurgical Society, where there is one, of the State in which that neurosurgeon has his/her principal practice and will also be sent to the National Practitioners Databank.
Expulsion If a member is expelled from the AANS, a summary of that matter will be printed in one or more of the AANS publications, specifying the particular matter deemed to be unprofessional or unethical and the State in which the member has his or her principal practice. The member’s name will not be included. Notice of such expulsion shall be sent to the State Licensure Authority and State Neurosurgical Society, where there is one, of the State in which that neurosurgeon has his/her principal practice and will also be sent to the National Practitioners Databank. While it is the practice of the AANS to limit publication of such disciplinary actions in the manner outlined above, the AANS does not guarantee the confidentiality of the pendancy or results of any disciplinary actions brought against members pursuant to the Bylaws. The AANS reserves the right to advise any licensure or certification board of any disciplinary actions taken, as deemed appropriate by the Board of Directors.