Last week, Salem (Massachusetts) Hospital sent a warning letter to 450 endoscopy patients, informing them of possible exposure to HIV and hepatitis due to improper intravenous administration. According to reports on November 20, a class-action lawsuit has been filed against Mass General Brigham Hospital in Somerville, Massachusetts, and 10 hospital employees. USA Today.
The eight-page complaint was filed on Nov. 17 on behalf of patient Melinda Cashman, who it says was exposed to the infection. Ms Cashman was one of hundreds of patients potentially exposed between June 2021 and April 2023.
The lawsuit claims the hospital and its employees were negligent and says Ms. Cashman suffered permanent injuries, anxiety, emotional distress and a diminished quality of life as a result of the reported exposure.
Salem Hospital said in a statement that the risk of infection is “minimal” and no infections have been reported so far.
All exposed patients have been notified, and the hospital has set up a hotline to answer patient questions and concerns.
Ms. Cashman’s lawyer, Jonathan Sweet, said in a statement that the infected patients “had to face life-changing possibilities because of the hospital’s carelessness.” “Our client deserves someone to be held accountable for years of negligence.”
The lawsuit is seeking a jury trial.