Winner 1987

Deadly Mistakes

WRC-TV

Deadly Mistakes is the story of how inaccurate lab readings led people to believe they were free of cancer when they were not. Others underwent unnecessary surgery for diseases they did not have. The results ranged from psychological trauma to death. WRC-TV, Washington, has provided a real public service in examining the laboratory errors and, more importantly, in revealing some of the reasons behind such errors. In most cases the errors could have easily been avoided if acceptable procedures had been followed. Lea Thompson and Rick Nelson have also taken the extra step by suggesting a plan of action in the laboratories and for the Congress. The Peabody Board recognizes WRC-TV for Deadly Mistakes and for the contributions this excellent undertaking has made.