American doctor attending burn trial during surgery [Captured from the Sacramento Bee website, USA. Resale and DB prohibited] / Photo by Yonhap News
[Asia Economy Reporter Choi Eun-young] In the United States, a bizarre incident occurred where a doctor appeared in a virtual court hearing while performing surgery.
On the 27th, local media including the Sacramento Bee reported that on the 25th (local time), plastic surgeon Scott Green appeared in a virtual court hearing during surgery and is now facing possible disciplinary action.
Originally, Green was scheduled to attend a trial for a traffic violation, and the hearing was conducted via the online video conferencing program Zoom due to the impact of COVID-19. However, the court was greatly surprised by Green’s appearance during the trial.
He appeared on screen wearing surgical scrubs. Although no patients were visible on the screen, sounds of medical equipment operating were clearly heard.
The startled court clerk asked Green, "Can you attend the trial?" and "Are you currently in the operating room?"
Green calmly replied, "Yes. I am in the operating room right now. But I can attend the trial. Let’s proceed."
The court clerk again informed Green that traffic violation trials are broadcast live to the public by law, but Green acknowledged this and seemed unconcerned.
In fact, while waiting for the judge, Green was seen on screen seemingly continuing the surgery with his head down.
However, the trial did not proceed that day. The judge stopped the trial, concerned about the patient in Green’s operating room. Green urged the trial to continue, saying, "There is another surgeon next to me who can take over the surgery," but the judge refused, stating, "It is inappropriate to conduct the trial under these circumstances."
Ultimately, Green apologized to the judge and postponed the trial.
The California Medical Board issued a statement on the 26th, saying, "We expect doctors to strictly follow the rules when treating patients," and added, "We will investigate this incident."
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