Kaiser Permanente sued for $534M by patient who alleges treatment errors caused him to lose his legs
A patient is suing Kaiser Permanente for $534 million, alleging doctors at the health system failed to properly diagnose his heart condition, leading to severe cardiac arrest that caused him to lose both legs.
In a lawsuit filed on Aug. 21, Mathew Williamson alleges that he had a history of cardiac-related health troubles, including a blockage, that required him to be constantly monitored.
Despite this, he was allegedly given metoprolol by Kaiser, despite the drug being dangerous for patients with atrioventricular block. The lawsuit claims that, if a patient with an atrioventricular block is given metoprolol, a pacemaker is typically necessary.
Williamson was not equipped with a pacemaker, his attorneys wrote in the complaint.
He suffered cardiac arrest on May 15. Before that time, Williamson alleges Kaiser was well aware of his cardiac issues.
His legs were amputated above the knee, and his arms required serious fasciotomies to preserve their function, the lawsuit alleges.
Over time, his condition has allegedly continued to deteriorate, with Williamson suffering renal failure, phantom limb pain, bowel injury and more, his attorneys wrote in the court filing.
The lawsuit is seeking damages, including future expected medical expenses.
For more, read the full story from KATU 2 at the link below.
Chad is an award-winning writer and editor with over 15 years of experience working in media. He has a decade-long professional background in healthcare, working as a writer and in public relations.