Amazon One Medical Sued After Death of Patient

Amazon is attempting to gain traction in the healthcare industry. It sells medical devices online, runs its own pharmacy, and most recently, it operates a chain of clinics, called Amazon One Medical. One of Amazon One Medical’s California clinics has been named in a wrongful death lawsuit filed by a 45-year-old biotech worker. According to the lawsuit, negligent care led to his death.

 According to the lawsuit, the plaintiff reported severe symptoms including shortness of breath and coughing up blood. He was allegedly advised to “buy an inhaler.” But hours later, he collapsed and died. In this case, the plaintiff had diabetes, chronic kidney disease, and sepsis at the time of his death, according to the lawsuit. The case raises concerns over telemedicine’s ability to address life-threatening situations effectively.

Amazon acquired One Medical in 2023. It expanded its telehealth services but the company faces criticism for layoffs and reducing its clinical staff. The family’s lawsuit alleges inadequate care and understaffing contributed to his death. The first court hearing in this case is set for March.

In the complaint, the patient’s family alleges that One Medical lacked “adequately trained and qualified staff,” resulting in treatment that was “careless, reckless, and negligent.” The family contends that the clinic’s staff failed to order appropriate testing.

Amazon refused to comment on the specifics of the case citing patient privacy concerns but provided the following statement:

“While we are prohibited by law from discussing patient records, we refute claims that a change in the duration of visits or location of a virtual visit has impacted the care provided at Amazon One Medical. We care deeply about every patient we serve, and the quality and safety of our care are our highest priorities.”

While this is the first medical malpractice lawsuit filed against Amazon One Medical, it is not the first lawsuit to allege defects in telemedicine contributed to the death of a patient. Amazon has had mixed results with its attempts to enter the healthcare industry. They sell prescription drugs and healthcare equipment online, but actually caring for patients with serious illnesses is considerably more difficult. Critics say that telehealth is not always the best solution for patient care.

Amazon bought One Medical in 2023 for nearly $4 billion. Immediately, the company proceeded to reduce staff while moving more of its operations online. Amazon said that the changes were intended to expand consumer access to medical care.

Critics say that One Medical’s reliance on telehealth and efficiency-driven models may not adequately serve patients with complex or urgent medical needs. In addition, the subscription fee has raised concerns about affordability and equity in healthcare access. To boot, Amazon laid off several employees leading to concerns about the impact on patient care and staff workloads.

Talk to an Oakland, CA Medical Malpractice Attorney Today 

Venardi Zurada represents the interests of injured patients or grieving families in medical malpractice lawsuits. We serve the Bay Area from our office locations in Oakland and Walnut Creek. Call our Oakland medical malpractice lawyers today to schedule an appointment, and we can begin investigating your injuries right away.

Source:

consumeraffairs.com/news/amazon-one-medical-sued-after-patient-dies-121824.html