Anesthesiologist Found with Needle in Her Arm
San Francisco Chronicle reporter Megan Cassidy just broke a major story about a pediatric anesthesiologist. Other reporters missed this but Megan Cassidy reported that a UCSF anesthesiologist was arrested on March 5, 2025, after being found unconscious with an IV needle and syringe containing propofol, a powerful sedative, at UCSF.
Her attorney stated she was suspended for 10 days in January, transferred campuses, and is now in residential treatment for substance abuse after taking a voluntary leave. Anesthesiologists are noted to be at higher risk for substance abuse due to easy access to potent drugs. UCSF declined to comment, citing personnel confidentiality
Daniel Horowitz was consulted on the story and the link to the entire story is right here.
Daniel is quoted as saying " allowing that doctor to continue accessing drugs while treating children, could put patients in danger and allow the doctor to continue self-destructive behavior. “It’s truly the height of irresponsibility,” he said"
This story is just beginning.
Megan Cassidy is a crime reporter with The Chronicle, also covering cops, criminal justice issues and mayhem. Previously, Cassidy worked for the Arizona Republic covering Phoenix police, Sheriff Joe Arpaio and desert-area crime and mayhem. She is a two-time graduate of the University of Missouri, and has additionally worked at the Casper Star-Tribune, National Geographic and an online publication in Buenos Aires. Cassidy can be reached on twitter at @meganrcassidy,