Title: Mass General Brigham Salem Hospital Faces Class-Action Lawsuit Over Patient Exposure Concerns
Mass General Brigham Salem Hospital is currently embroiled in a class-action lawsuit as hundreds of patients potentially face exposure to HIV or hepatitis. The lawsuit targets both Mass General Brigham and Salem Hospital, along with 10 hospital employees, accusing them of negligence in the administration of intravenous medications during endoscopy procedures spanning from June 2021 to April of this year.
Maintaining that the risk of infection is minimal, the hospital has emphasized that no infections resulting from the exposures have been reported so far. Upon becoming aware of the issue earlier this year, Salem Hospital acted swiftly to rectify the practice as soon as they were notified.
In response to the concerns raised, the Massachusetts Department of Public Health conducted an on-site investigation at Salem Hospital and collaborated closely with Mass General Brigham’s infection control team and relevant bureaus to address the situation. Both entities have assured patients that the risk of infection is extremely low, and there is no evidence of infections stemming from the exposures.
Salem Hospital has taken proactive measures to notify all potentially affected patients. Approximately 90% of these patients have already completed, scheduled, or declined free testing for HIV, Hepatitis B, and Hepatitis C. Those who have not been directly contacted by the hospital are reassured that they are not believed to be impacted by the incident, eliminating the need for concern.
This incident serves as a reminder of the challenges hospitals face in maintaining patient safety and preventing potential exposures. Mass General Brigham and Salem Hospital are dedicated to rectifying the situation and ensuring that patient well-being remains their top priority.
As the lawsuit unfolds, Mass General Brigham and Salem Hospital will continue to cooperate fully, providing any necessary information or support required. While the potential exposure is indeed distressing, both entities are committed to transparency and swift action to address any concerns.
