In March 2009, a Boone County, West Virginia (WV), man went to a hospital because he felt like he had the flu and had irregular stools. While there, he had an ultrasound done that showed abnormal results, but according to a lawsuit filed in 2012 by his widow, the results were not investigated any further.
The man continued to have tests done, one of which showed elevated liver enzymes. Again, this issue was allegedly ignored. Finally, in December 2010, the patient went back to the hospital, where it was discovered he had end stage liver disease and required a liver transplant. Unfortunately, he died from liver failure in 2011.
The medical malpractice suit names Charleston Area Medical Center, Dr. Robert Atkins, his primary care physician, and group practice Madison Medical as defendants. The suit claims that if the abnormal ultrasound report or elevated liver enzymes result had been followed up on by the hospital or his physician, the victim might still be alive.
Medical personnel to whom we entrust our health sometimes make mistakes. In this case, apparent misdianoses and negligence led to a man’s death. If you or a loved one has suffered because of a medical error, it is important to contact a medical malpractice attorney to determine what action needs to be taken before the the legal time limit for filing a lawsuit runs out.
Reading this guide written by an experienced lawyer will help you understand what is involved in a medical malpractice lawsuit.
MH