Sample interview questions: Can you provide an example of a health story you covered that required investigative journalism skills?
Sample answer:
Example of a Health Story Requiring Investigative Journalism Skills
Title: “Unveiling the Truth: The Hidden Dangers of Contaminated Medical Devices”
Introduction:
In the realm of healthcare, patient safety is paramount. However, there have been instances where medical devices intended to heal have caused harm due to contamination. This health story delves into an investigation that uncovered the risks associated with contaminated medical devices and the subsequent impact on patient health.
Investigative Process:
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Initial Tip: The investigation began with a tip from a whistleblower within a medical device manufacturing company. The whistleblower provided information about unsanitary conditions and lack of proper sterilization procedures at the manufacturing facility.
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Document Gathering: To substantiate the whistleblower’s claims, I collected documents, including internal company emails, quality control reports, and inspection records. These documents revealed a pattern of negligence and disregard for patient safety.
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Interviews with Experts: I conducted in-depth interviews with medical experts, including infectious disease specialists and public health officials. Their insights helped establish a link between the contaminated medical devices and the infections acquired by patients.
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Patient Testimonies: To humanize the story, I sought out patients who had suffered adverse effects due to contaminated medical devices. Their firsthand accounts provided a powerful narrative that resonated with readers.
Findings:
The investigation uncovered a systemic failure within the medical device manufacturing company. The company had prioritized profit over patient safety, leading to widespread contamination of medical devices. This negligence resulted in numerous patients contracting severe infections and some even losing their lives.
Impact:
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Regulatory Action: The findings of the investigation prompted regulatory agencies to conduct their own investigations. Conseq… Read full answer