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Justin Lapham Recovering From Being Struck by Car After Game

Ryan Nute — Wed, 20 Dec 2006 12:07:46 GMT

12-year old Justin Lapham was struck by a car outside of Qwest Field in Seattle last Thursday. Fortunately, he appears to be on the mend.

Justin was struck by a car going 35 mph. He landed on the windshield and hit his head on the road. Luckily the driver who hit Justin stopped and a police report is expected.

While at Harborview Justin had the chance to share a room with San Francisco 49er's starting center Eric Heitmann, who had fractured his leg during the game. Justin received Heitmann's jersey and an autographed shirt.

Pedestrian safety is a major concern around Qwest Field and other mass-participation venues. Unfortunately, this probably won't be the last time something like this happens in that area.

Originally posted at InjuryBoard by Ryan Nute

Opening Medical Malpractice Cases to the Light of Day

Ryan Nute — Thu, 14 Dec 2006 15:22:35 GMT

Confidentiality in medical malpractice suits is an issue which is receiving increased scrutiny. Especially where the appropriate authorities are kept in the dark.

As reported by the Seattle TImes, two lawsuits against a Seattle-area physician (Dr. James H. Greene) illustrate the current concern. Significant settlements were paid by the doctor's employer after he was accused of negligence. However, one of the cases was sealed by a court and unknown to regulators when the doctor was investigated after discliplinary charges were filed.

As noted in the article, it is common for the defense to insist on confidentiality clauses and sealed files in settling medical malpractice cases. Unfortunately, claimants are rarely in a position to oppose such requirements. Increasing scrutiny from the media, the courts and disciplinary authorities may change the current landscape.

Originally posted at InjuryBoard by Ryan Nute

Court Imposes Stringent Disciplinary Standard

Ryan Nute — Fri, 15 Dec 2006 12:28:04 GMT

Medical malpractice cases sometimes involve related disciplinary proceedings against providers. In a recent ruling the Washington Supreme Court imposed a higher burden of proof in connection with disciplinary proceedings against nursing assistants.

The Court ruled that "clear, cogent, and convincing proof" was required (rather than that the disciplinary allegations be proved by a "preponderance of the evidence"). The Court relied on an earlier ruling involving the revocation of the license of a Seattle doctor (who was accused of probation violation and sexual misconduct).

Disciplinary proceedings should be inquired into in any medical malpractice case involving a doctor, nurse, nursing assistant or any other medical provider.

Originally posted at InjuryBoard by Ryan Nute