Family of Ebola patient initially not admitted has settled with Dallas hospital
The family of a man whose Ebola wasn’t initially diagnosed by a Texas hospital has settled a potential claim against the facility over his delayed treatment for an undisclosed amount.
However, attorney Les Weisbrod, who represents the survivors, called the agreement a “very good deal” that will not only provide for Thomas Eric Duncan’s parents and four children but cover the cost of his medical care, WFAA reports.
The company that owns Texas Health Presbyterian Hospital Dallas will also pay for a Texas Health Dallas Thomas Eric Duncan Memorial Fund that will help provide treatment for Ebola victims in Liberia. Meanwhile, the chief executive of Texas Health Resources wrote to Duncan’s survivors to apologize, according to the Guardian.
The Wall Street Journal (sub. req.) reports that Weisbrod said the settlement “was the best resolution we could get” under “onerous” Texas laws that limit liability and awards in medical malpractice cases.
“We lost one, but we can save a thousand,” said Josephus Weeks, a nephew of Duncan. “That is my goal.”
A hospital spokeswoman said it is sorry for the delayed diagnosis and “greatly appreciates the acknowledgment by the family’s attorney that Mr. Duncan’s inpatient care was excellent. We are grateful to reach this point of reconciliation and healing for all involved.”
Duncan’s fiancée, Louise Troh, isn’t covered by the settlement because she is not a blood relative.
