Over the past two months, the COVID-19 pandemic has drastically changed the lives of individuals across the country, including Maryland residents. Experts say that in order to flatten the curve and beat the pandemic, more widespread testing is needed. Since the beginning of this crisis, test kits have been sparse, with many residents unable to get tested even if they feel ill. While there certainly is a need for more test-kits across the country, a recent story out of Washington state highlights that the need may be even greater than previously thought, as distributed test kits are being recalled for possible contamination.
According to a local news report, the Washington State Department of Health distributed 12,000 test kits to local health jurisdictions, tribal nations, and state agency partners across the state. However, the Department is now recalling these kits, after being alerted by the University of Washington Medicine that there may be possible contamination and a quality issue with them. The specific issue affects the viral transport media, which is the fluid that preserves the individual’s specimen as the test is transported. Healthcare workers noticed the issue when seeing that some vials of the transport media were an unusual color. While this issue is not at this time thought to pose a health risk to patients, the tests are still be recalled in an effort to be as safe as possible when dealing with this potentially deadly virus.
Washington state is working to replace the recalled tests as quickly as possible, but the recall comes at a terrible time, as the entire country is in dire need of tests. While it is still unclear how long this pandemic, or the related stay-at-home orders, will last, what is clear is the immense burden placed on health care workers and facilities, who are struggling to keep up with the increasing rates of infection. Unfortunately, this may mean that there is an increased risk of pharmacy errors or medical accidents occurring, which can result in catastrophic effects for Maryland patients.
Contact a Maryland Pharmacy Error and Medical Malpractice Attorney Today
If you or a loved one have been tragically injured due to a Maryland pharmacy error or medical malpractice, you may be entitled to financial compensation. Whether related to COVID-19 or not, coping in the aftermath of these incidents can be incredibly difficult, scary, and financially burdensome. Lebowitz & Mzhen, Personal Injury Lawyers, can help you during this troublesome time. We understand the strain placed on individuals and families in the aftermath of medical errors, especially considering the financial implications of the COVID-19 pandemic. That’s why our compassionate attorneys are ready to work with clients every step of the way to get them the compensation they deserve. With free consultations and a contingency-based fee, you can rest assured that you will never pay a cent unless we can help you recover. So call today to learn more, free of charge, and discuss your case with one of our attorneys: 800-654-1949. Or, you can fill out our online form.