Parents awarded $2.88 in wrongful death of their son

Medical errors can be one of the scariest things that patients in Pennsylvania must face every time they seek medical care. People naturally need to be able to trust their healthcare providers. Many times, this trust is earned and warranted but there are too many times when it is not. Medication errors, surgical error, a failure to diagnose properly and more can all lead to serious consequences.

Such was the case for a Kansas man according to a recent news article. In the process of receiving treatment for lower back pain, he contracted meningitis from a MRSA infection which went undiagnosed until it was too late. The nerve condition that also developed left him crippled and eventually he took his own life. His parents filed a malpractice lawsuit and were recently awarded $2.88 million.

His story began in May of 2008 when he received his first injection for back pain relief. A second injection in December of that year failed to provide help and in early January of 2009, he was given an epidural steroid by injection. After this visit, his worsened condition included the appearance of a large red lump. Eight days later, he was given a second steroid injection despite the presence of the lump. Another eight days later he was diagnosed with the meningitis when taken to the hospital.

When an individual suffers at the hands of a negligent physician, the right to receive compensation must prevail. In cases involving the eventual death of a patient, family members can seek this compensation and justice. Talking to an attorney when these things happen can be a way to identify the right steps to take.

Source: The Kansas City Star, “Johnson County jury awards $2.88 million in malpractice case against pain clinic,” Alan Bavley, April 6, 2014