Because Relationships Matter 
We are proud to announce that partner Adam E. Deutsch obtained a verdict of $15.5 million in Ulster County Supreme Court on behalf of the family of a 41-year-old husband and father who tragically lost his life due to medical negligence. This case stands as a powerful reminder of the critical importance of communication and timely action in emergency medical settings.
Our client, a healthy and active father, experienced a sudden onset of chest pain and was transported by ambulance to the hospital. Upon arrival, he was triaged and promptly seen by a physician assistant (PA), who ordered laboratory tests, an EKG, and a chest X-ray. While the EKG results were normal, the chest X-ray revealed an abnormality—a prominent aortic knob. The hospital radiologist recognized the seriousness of this finding and recommended further evaluation with a CT scan to rule out a life-threatening aortic dissection.
The X-ray report, indicating the need for urgent follow-up, was available in the patient’s chart about an hour after his arrival. Despite this, the patient, after waiting for over two and a half hours, informed a nurse that he needed to leave but would return if called about any abnormal results. The nurse documented this conversation and assured him he would be contacted if there were any concerning findings. At the time of this conversation, the abnormal X-ray report had already been available for over an hour. Tragically, no one called the patient to inform him of the abnormal result or the need for immediate further testing.
Five days later, the patient died suddenly from an undiagnosed aortic dissection—a condition that could have been identified and treated had the recommended CT scan been performed. During the trial, the hospital, the emergency room attending physician, and the patient’s primary care physician resolved their claims. The jury found Emergency Physicians Services of NY, PC and their PA liable for failing to communicate critical information and ensure the patient received the necessary care.
This case highlights several vital issues in emergency medicine. Timely communication of critical test results is essential, especially before a patient is discharged. Medical staff must ensure patients are informed about abnormal findings and the need for further evaluation. Systemic failures to relay information can have devastating consequences for patients and their families.
We are deeply honored to have represented this family and to have helped them obtain justice for their unimaginable loss. Our firm remains committed to holding healthcare providers accountable and advocating for safer medical practices to prevent similar tragedies in the future. If you or a loved one has suffered due to medical negligence, please contact us to discuss your rights and options.