Being mentioned in national and local coverage of a $276-million federal criminal case isn't the kind of attention usually received by the University of Michigan Health System.
But the health system can't ignore a medical school neurology professor's involvement in the prosecution disclosed Tuesday, as reported in Deadline Detroit, so it takes the minimally appropriate step -- a three sentence statement:
The University of Michigan takes this situation very seriously and is carefully reviewing all of Dr. [Sid] Gilman’s activities while a faculty member at our University. There is an ongoing legal process, and we recognize the importance of letting that process occur. The University of Michigan has comprehensive guidelines in place to govern activity in both clinical trials and for University employees engaged in consulting work, and any actions taken will be in accordance with University policies.
When Tom Henderson of Crain's Detroit Business asked questions, he hit a wall:
Pete Barkey, director of public relations for the health system, was unavailable for further comment, such as defining a range of possible sanctions the guidelines call for in the event it is determined Gilman violated university policy.
Gilman, 80, led a committee overseeing a clinical trial by two drug makers into whether a new compound is safe for patients with mild to moderate Alzheimer’s disease. Gilman also moonlighted for a New York-based expert company selling advice to Wall Street clients. Gilman, described as a cooperating witness by federal authorities, leaked secret data to a portfolio manager for 18 months, according to the Securities and Exchange Commission and Justice Department. That executive was arrested Tuesday.
