The meningitis outbreak of 2012 has resulted in more than 700 people becoming ill and 46 losing their lives as a result of tainted steroid injections as of February 13, 2013, and the case now takes a new turn. The New England Compounding Center has been named in numerous lawsuits, but it is now in bankruptcy. Some patients affected by the tainted medication and who are concerned about receiving any type of compensation are filing claims against doctors who prescribed the steroid injections, according to American Medical News.
Product liability cases involving defective drugs often include naming physicians in the lawsuit when patients have been injured. Examples of negligence could include establishing that the doctor knew an adverse event could occur, or there was a failure to warn the patient of risks.
The timeline of when reports about the meningitis outbreak began may be important in some cases. If, after the public became aware of people becoming sick or dying after receiving the injection, a doctor continued to use it, this is an issue that may show negligence.
Other Liable Parties in a Dangerous Drug Claim
The following are additional parties that may be liable for injuries or death caused by a dangerous drug:
- testing laboratory;
- pharmacy;
- hospital;
- physician’s clinic;
- nurse;
- physician’s assistant; and
- pharmaceutical sales rep.
Establishing negligence of the party named in the lawsuit is important in successfully recovering compensation for damages. Figuring out if a party may be liable for damages can be confusing. Speaking with an attorney at Gacovino, Lake & Associates can help if you’ve been injured. We can discuss the circumstances of the case and whether a physician may be liable for resultant injuries or illness.
