Many veterans in Texas struggle with health issues. They often seek help from U.S Veterans Affairs facilities to help cope with their issues, expecting that doctors will make decisions that are in their best interests. Unfortunately, a wrongful death lawsuit filed against the government as a result of care allegedly received at a VA facility in another state claims that doctors failed to provide such care.
The suit involves the death of a 35-year-old veteran. Filed by his widow, several allegations are made against the facility. They include claims that medical personnel improperly prescribed drugs to the victim, provided inadequate emergency care when a nurse found him unresponsive and failed to properly diagnose his substance abuse and mental health issues.
It is asserted that a doctor failed to warn the victim that a powerful drug prescribed to treat pain and alleviate anxiety could interact with other drugs he was taking. It is also claimed that he was given too high of a dosage. Family members reportedly visited the man at the hospital hours before his death and claimed that he was barely able to speak due to his level of sedation.
A nurse reportedly discovered the man unresponsive hours later, but the family claims that CPR was not initiated for 10 minutes. It took another 10 minutes for emergency personnel to arrive. An investigation conducted by the investigator general found the hospital at fault last year, and one physician was fired. Other veterans refer to the hospital as “Candy Land” due to the high likelihood of being prescribed drugs. In fact, a report found that veterans treated at this facility are more likely to receive painkillers in comparison to other VA hospitals.
Patients and their families expect that medical care providers will work to determine an accurate diagnosis and create an appropriate treatment plan, including warning a patient about the potential side effects of any medication prescribed. Failure to do so could have serious consequences for patients in Texas and across the country. For those who have experienced the loss of a loved one due to such negligence, a wrongful death lawsuit may be appropriate. In addition to the possibility of a monetary award that will help loved ones cope with the financial consequences of their loss, it could also prompt changes that will protect future patients. Consultation service from the Maloney lawyers is free. Contact us today to get started.