Consumer Law

Without Medical Malpractice Lawsuits, Connecticut Hospitals Would Rarely Be Held Accountable

By Justinian Lane

Are there any states that aggressively investigate and fine hospitals for violation of state law?

For the fraction of cases the department pursues, investigators almost always find multiple violations of state laws and regulations. But hospitals rarely face sanctions.

From 2005 through September 2009, the department conducted nearly 300 investigations based on adverse-event reports, with deficiencies found in all but a handful of cases. But during the same period, the department imposed cash fines against hospitals fewer than 25 times. Most of the fines ranged from $8,000 to $25,000, with two high-profile exceptions in 2005: a $250,000 penalty against Connecticut Children's Medical Center and a $100,000 fine against Hartford Hospital ? both after multiple deaths or serious injuries.

Source: About 25% Of Reported Hospital Mishaps Are Investigated By Connecticut Health Officials -- Courant.com

Full post as published by TortDeform.com on November 17, 2009 (boomark / email).