MOUNT DORA, Florida (AP) — A central Florida urologist has posted a sign on his office door urging supporters of President Barack Obama to find a different doctor.
The notice on Dr. Jack Cassell’s Mount Dora practice says, “If you voted for Obama, seek urologic care elsewhere. Changes to your healthcare begin right now, not in four years.”
Cassell told the Orlando Sentinel on Thursday he wasn’t questioning patients or refusing care, because that would be unethical.
“But if they read the sign and turn the other way, so be it,” he said.
Cassell, 56, also provides Republican reading material in the waiting room — probably not a risky move, given that Mount Dora’s 10,000 residents and the surrounding area lean heavily conservative. Above a stack of Republican health care literature, a sign reads: “This is what the morons in Washington have done to your health care. Take one, read it and vote out anyone who voted for it.”
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The Florida Department of Health’s Division of Medical Quality Assurance, which investigates complaints and handles licensing, did not immediately return telephone messages seeking comment on Friday.
A University of Florida professor said Cassell is walking a thin line between right and wrong. William Allen, a professor in bioethics, law and medical professionalism, said civil rights protections prevent patient discrimination. But the law only provides for race, gender, religion, sexual orientation and disability — not political opinion.
Allen said Cassell may be within his rights if he doesn’t quiz patients about their politics and hasn’t refused to see anyone.
”(He’s) trying to hold onto the nub of his ethical obligation,” Allen said. “But this is pushing the limit.”
Cassell has been practicing in the area since 1988. His wife, Leslie Campione, is a lawyer and Republican candidate for the county commission.
Cassell says most patients have been extremely supportive, though three had complained.
“They know it’s not good for them,” Cassell said.
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