Oregon Hospital Faces Lawsuit Over Alleged Fentanyl Tampering and Patient Deaths

Recently, a lawsuit was filed against Asante Rogue Regional Medical Center in Medford, Oregon, following reports of a nurse allegedly replacing intravenous fentanyl drips with tap water. The lawsuit seeks up to $11.5 million on behalf of the estate of a 65-year-old man who died as a result of this wrongful prescription. This incident has sparked investigations into potential crimes against patients involving the theft of controlled substances, leading to adverse outcomes for some. It has also brought to light a significant issue in the healthcare system - drug theft from hospitals.

Allegations and Lawsuit

The wrongful death suit was filed last Monday against the medical center and nurse Dani Marie Schofield. The lawsuit represents the estate of Horace E. Wilson, the founder of a cannabis company called Decibel Farms in Jacksonville, Oregon, who died in February 2022 after being treated at the hospital for injuries sustained from falling off a ladder. It is alleged that his medication was swapped, leading to severe complications including a treatment-resistant bacterial infection and multi-system organ failure.

Legal Actions and Representations

Justin Idiart, a lawyer representing several clients affected by this incident, revealed that there are nine clients whose medication was swapped and that some have tragically died as a result. Additionally, five others have sought legal representation in this matter. The lawsuit could be the first of potentially three dozen cases to be filed against the medical center.

Response from Asante

Asante Rogue Regional Medical Center has expressed distress over this issue and stated that they reported it to law enforcement and are cooperating with the investigations. They have also been in contact with affected patients and their relatives, informing them about the nurse’s actions causing potential bacterial infections due to the replacement of fentanyl with tap water.

Outlook and Expectations

Local law firms are also exploring litigation in this matter, and it is expected that more cases will be filed. The severity of the situation has prompted authorities to conduct thorough investigations into potential medical malpractice and drug theft, addressing the broader issue of patient safety and the security of controlled substances in medical facilities.