Detroit, Michigan – A jury has awarded a staggering $120 million on behalf of a boy who suffered severe birth injuries at a hospital within the Henry Ford Health System. The verdict was delivered on Thursday, March 28, after the jury found both the health system and the attending obstetrician and nurses negligent for failing to perform a timely C-section, resulting in irreversible harm to the child.
In June 2010, the mother arrived at Henry Ford Hospital, already at term but not near delivery, according to officials. However, after being admitted, the fetal monitor detected “non-reassuring fetal heart tones,” prompting the need for a C-section. Unfortunately, due to a delay exceeding two hours, the infant experienced severe asphyxiation, leading to cerebral palsy and permanent brain damage. As a result, the child will require lifelong care.
The Michigan Department of Health and Human Services joined the case against the defendants due to the exorbitant medical expenses they have incurred for the 13-year-old child’s care. The department highlighted the urgent nature of the situation when a fetal monitor indicates non-reassuring heart tones, emphasizing the need for prompt action to prevent such injuries and the outrageousness of the delay.
The severe consequences of the delayed C-section on the child’s life are evident, with a need for continuous medical and home care. While nothing can fully restore the quality of life the child would have had without this injury, additional therapies and support services aim to help the child cope with their disabilities and protect against premature death. The case serves as a reminder to the obstetrical community to act expediently in response to non-reassuring fetal monitor patterns.
In response to the verdict, Henry Ford Health expressed sadness for the Drake family, highlighting their ongoing support for patients as part of their family. However, they believe the jury’s verdict is not consistent with the facts of the case and plan to vigorously appeal. As the case remains ongoing, the health system refrained from providing further comment at this time.
The substantial compensation awarded by the jury reflects the gravity of the child’s injuries and their lifelong impact. It underscores the importance of prompt and appropriate medical intervention during childbirth and holds healthcare providers accountable for their actions. The outcome of this case could potentially influence the medical community’s approach to handling similar situations to prevent future harm to infants and their families.