One month after surgeon Zeferino Martinez began working at a hospital, he was fired after the hospital was acquired by UPMC Susquehanna purchased the facility. Dr. Martinez was actually told that his job would not be in jeopardy after the acquisition. UPMC representatives even told Dr. Martinez he’d be given new equipment and that his contract would continue. When the doctor was fired, he was told that the company was “moving in a different direction” and that the firing was not based on his job performance.
According to background information concerning Dr. Martinez’s case, he is a board-certified orthopedic surgeon and has 40 years of professional experience, which includes a specialty fellowship and several general and orthopedic-surgery residencies. Dr. Martinez also worked in several hospitals during this career, which led him to believe that his firing was a form of age discrimination. The doctor was 70 years old when he was let go from his job, and his surgery schedule was booked for months when he was let go.
Additional Evidence In Dr. Martinez’s Case
Shortly after Dr. Martinez was fired, the hospital hired a younger physician who assumed some of Dr. Martinez’s previous responsibilities. The hospital later posted an opening for an orthopedic surgeon, and Dr. Martinez applied for the position three times with no response. The hospital hired another orthopedic surgeon, who was also much younger and less qualified than Martinez.
How Employers Can Stop Discrimination In the Workplace
As an employer, it is important to keep in mind that women and people of color who are over the age of 50 are more significantly impacted by age discrimination than any other group. As a result, they suffer the highest rate of unemployment. Company leaders should make an effort to avoid discrimination by not dismissing working based on age, especially if these professionals are also female and non-white.
Working with a qualified Florida attorney who has experience with discrimination cases can help you get the compensation you deserve if you have been the victim of ageism in the workplace. While this accusation can be difficult to prove, keeping records of your dealing with employers and colleagues could provide your lawyer with the evidence necessary to win your case.
