Mass General Brigham Salem Hospital is currently facing a class-action lawsuit after potentially exposing numerous patients to HIV or hepatitis. The lawsuit involves Mass General Brigham, Salem Hospital, and 10 hospital employees, all of whom have been accused of negligence in the administration of intravenous medications during endoscopy procedures. These incidents allegedly occurred between June 2021 and April of this year.
In response to the lawsuit, the hospital has maintained that the risk of infection is exceptionally low and, as of now, no infections have been identified. The hospital first became aware of this isolated practice earlier this year and promptly took corrective measures, notifying the hospital’s quality and infection control teams.
Following the hospital’s internal investigation, the Massachusetts Department of Public Health (DPH) also conducted an onsite investigation and is now working closely with Mass General Brigham’s infection control team. Both the DPH and Salem Hospital are adamant that the infection risk to patients is minimal, and there is no evidence of any infections resulting from these exposures.
Currently, the hospital is working diligently to test patients who may have potentially been exposed to HIV, Hepatitis B, and Hepatitis C. A hospital spokesperson reassured the public by stating that 90% of those who may have been exposed have either completed the testing, scheduled an appointment, or declined the free testing option.
Additionally, the hospital spokesperson emphasized that patients who have not been notified do not need to be concerned. The hospital has taken quick action to rectify the situation and has implemented measures to prevent similar incidents in the future.
Overall, Mass General Brigham Salem Hospital is dealing with the ramifications of the class-action lawsuit due to potential exposure of patients to HIV or hepatitis. While the hospital maintains that the risk is minimal, it continues to collaborate with health authorities, conduct tests, and provide reassurance to concerned individuals.
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