Soldier Receives $2 Million in Medical Malpractice Suit

Tuesday April 14, 2009

In 2005, a U.S. soldier nearly died when three surgeons performed abdominal surgery. His lawyer proved that the surgeons were negligent during the operation and he was awarded $2 million in a lawsuit against them. Of that money, $380,000 went to the Bethesda Naval Hospital, where doctors worked to correct the damages done by the first group of surgeons. The remainder, $1.6 million was given to the soldier and his wife, to cover additional medical expenses, lost wages and provide compensation for physical and emotional damages.

This case raises the question of medical care for United States military personnel. Last month, a marine died because he was misdiagnosed with skin cancer. His family wants to be able to sue the government for his wrongful death. They are now pushing Congress for legislation that would make this action legal. It is expected to be discussed by Congress in the upcoming months.

Because the U.S. soldier with the botched abdominal surgery was an employee of the United States militia, as were his doctors, he may be granted the right to later sue his government for further damages.

Sources: http://www.avvo.com/news/soldier-wins--2-million-medical-malpractice-cas...