Professional Negligence Law Reporter

Doe, who had a long history of bipolar disorder and substance abuse, was admitted to the Roe mental health facility. Shortly after her admission, she began to experience dehydration, nausea, and vomiting. Laboratory studies were ordered on an urgent basis but were never performed. The next morning, Doe was found dead in her room.

Suit against the facility alleged failure to complete the lab studies, which, the plaintiff asserted, would have revealed Doe’s low sodium levels and electrolyte imbalance. Doe required transfer to a hospital for IV fluids, the plaintiff claimed, arguing that this would have prevented her death from cardiac arrythmia.

The plaintiff and defendant reached a settlement in the case for a total of $1.25 million.

Citation: Doe v. Roe Facility, Confidential Dkt. No. (Mass. Confidential Ct. June 6, 2023).

Plaintiff counsel: Jeffrey N. Catalano and Gisela DaSilva, both of Milton, Mass.