Record $14.8 Million Judgment Awarded in Utah Medical Malpractice Case Against Steward Health Care
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A utah judge has issued a record $14.8 million judgment against Steward Health Care in a medical malpractice case, deeming the hospital where the incident occurred “the most risky place on the planet” for delivery. The ruling, made in early August by Judge James Mr. Corum, was awarded to Ms. Zancanella and her family following a difficult childbirth experience. However, the family’s ability to collect the full amount is uncertain due to Steward’s ongoing bankruptcy proceedings and ample debts.
Details of the Malpractice Case and Ruling
The lawsuit stemmed from complications during Ms. Zancanella’s delivery at a Steward-owned hospital. While the specific details of the malpractice aren’t detailed in the initial report, Judge corum’s strong language – calling the hospital “the most dangerous place on the planet” for delivery – underscores the severity of the negligence found.The judge also indicated the award could have been even higher if Steward hadn’t withdrawn from the case.
The $14.8 million judgment represents the largest malpractice award in Utah’s history.
steward health Care’s Financial Challenges
The potential for the Zancanella family to recieve the full judgment is clouded by Steward Health Care’s precarious financial situation. The health system filed for Chapter 11 bankruptcy in May 2023, citing rising labour costs and declining reimbursement rates. As of August 2024, Steward faces billions of dollars in outstanding debts to creditors. Becker’s Hospital Review provides ongoing coverage of steward’s financial struggles.
A judge approved Steward’s Chapter 11 reorganization plan, but the path to financial stability remains uncertain. Becker’s Hospital Review reported on the plan’s approval.
Steward has 90 days from August 8th to appeal the $14.8 million judgment.
What Happens Next?
The Zancanella family now faces the challenge of navigating Steward’s bankruptcy proceedings to attempt to recover the awarded funds.Bankruptcy proceedings frequently enough involve complex negotiations with creditors,and the ultimate recovery for plaintiffs in malpractice cases can be significantly reduced.
Becker’s has reached out to Steward Health Care for comment and will update this story as more information becomes available.
Key Takeaways:
A Utah judge awarded a record $14.8 million in a medical malpractice case against Steward Health Care.
the judge cited severe negligence, calling the hospital “the most dangerous place on the planet” for delivery.
Steward Health care is currently in bankruptcy, raising doubts about the family’s ability to collect the full award.
Steward has 90 days to appeal the ruling.