(SitNews) Anchorage, Alaska - Alaska Department of Health and Social Services Commissioner Valerie Davidson has requested an independent investigation into workplace safety at the Alaska Psychiatric Institute (API).

Under the supervision of Attorney General Jahna Lindemuth, Anchorage attorney Bill Evans has been hired to independently investigate complaints of workplace safety made by API employees and how those complaints have been previously handled by API management. Mr. Evans will investigate whether API employees are comfortable bringing their concerns forward to hospital administrators as they occur and what unnecessary obstacles might exist to report complaints.

“The safety of our employees and patients is a top priority for API,” said DHSS Commissioner Valerie Davidson. “We are working with the Department of Law and Bill Evans to ensure our employees feel safe on the job. I thank the dedicated staff at API who brought these concerns forward. Your voice is critical to ensuring a safe environment for both staff and patients.”

Bill Evans is an Anchorage attorney with an extensive career in employment law. He previously served as the Chair of the Alaska Mental Health Board and is a former Ohio police officer and SWAT team member. Mr. Evans will serve as a special investigator under contract with the Alaska Department of Law.

“Bill Evans is well respected in Alaska’s legal community, and one of the best employment attorneys in our state,” said Alaska Attorney General Jahna Lindemuth. “His legal expertise and background with the Alaska Mental Health Board will help him provide a thorough review of the concerns that have been brought forward at API.”

Evans will provide a confidential report directly to the Attorney General and Commissioner Davidson outlining specific allegations and issues. The report should be submitted within four months. Following the confidential report, a public report will also be made available excluding any confidential information.

On the Web:

Bill Evans’ resume [PDF]

Editing by Mary Kauffman, SitNews

Source of News:

Alaska Department of Health and Social Services
www.dhss.alaska.gov

 

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