Salem Hospital, a part of Mass General Brigham in Massachusetts, finds itself embroiled in a class action lawsuit following revelations that nearly 450 patients might have been exposed to HIV or hepatitis viruses during intravenous medication administration.
The New England Keches Law Group has filed the lawsuit against the hospital and ten of its employees, representing Melinda Cashman. The lawsuit alleges that the hospital’s negligent administration of intravenous medications during endoscopic procedures between 2021 and 2023 led to potential exposure to HIV, hepatitis B, and hepatitis C viruses, falling below acceptable standards of care.
“We seek accountability for years of negligence,” expressed Jonathan Sweet, an attorney at the New England Keches Law Group. “Victims deserve justice, and those responsible need to be held accountable.”
The lawsuit demands answers concerning the prolonged oversight and a commitment that such a catastrophic mistake won’t recur, emphasizing the critical need for assurances for affected patients.
Responding to the allegations, Salem Hospital, in coordination with the Massachusetts Department of Public Health (DPH), has initiated measures following a risk assessment.
“While the risk of infection from this event is minimal,” the hospital’s statement assured, “we’ve notified all potentially affected patients, established a hotline with clinicians to address concerns, and provided free screening and support.”
DPH, having conducted an onsite investigation, instructed the hospital to offer free-of-charge follow-up care, including testing, to potentially affected patients.
“The hospital represents a place of healing and trust,” remarked Jeff Catalano, an attorney at the New England Keches Law Group. “For Melinda and other victims, accountability is vital to moving forward and preventing such incidents in the future.”
Source: News Agencies