Personal Injury Lawyer Blog
It is worth noting that situations similar to those described in this medical malpractice case could just as easily occur at any of the healthcare facilities in the San Jose area, such as Kaiser Permanente, Regional Medical Center, Good Samaritan Hospital, Santa Clara Valley Medical Center, or O’Connor Hospital.
(Please also note: the names and locations of all parties have been changed to protect the confidentiality of the participants in this personal injury lawsuit and its proceedings.)
William claimed that the hospital’s optometry department first diagnosed him as a “glaucoma suspect” in August 2004, but he received no treatment for onset glaucoma during the next four and a half years, despite subsequent visits and assessments that he was at risk for the disease. William subsequently became legally blind. He contended that the hospital should have treated him accordingly.
William further contended that the hospital’s optometrists had not followed an internal policy that required all patients with glaucoma to have their treatment overseen and reviewed by an ophthalmologist and that the optometrists should have also consulted with an ophthalmologist for his care.
The defense argued that William’s private internist should have been aware of his eye condition and need for treatment, and should have referred him for such treatment. The defendant also denied that William’s early symptoms were in fact indicative of glaucoma, and contended that he received proper VA medical care for treatment of his eyes.
Plaintiff’s counsel noted that the defendant served subpoenas upon every one of William’s private health care providers for purposes of filing potential third party complaints, but records disclosed no outside visits to any private optometrists or ophthalmologists, as William’s eye care was provided exclusively at the Palo Alto VA.
William also claimed he suffered anxiety and depression, though he still has some quality of life.
For more information you are welcome to contact Sacramento personal injury lawyer, Moseley Collins.
Helen William, William’s wife, sought recovery for loss of consortium.
SUMMARY:
RESULT: Settlement
Award Total: $250,000
The government did not admit liability, but agreed to settle Woodward and his wife’s claims for $250,000 prior to trial.
For more information you are welcome to contact Sacramento personal injury lawyer, Moseley Collins.