Jury Awards $7.1 Million to Pennsylvania Woman for Missed Blood Clot

In a significant legal victory, an Erie County, Pennsylvania, jury awarded $7.1 million to Allison Mitchell, a young woman who suffered catastrophic vision loss due to a missed diagnosis. In November 2020, Allison was admitted to Saint Vincent Hospital in Erie with severe headaches and underwent a CT scan. Despite clear signs of a blood clot, the radiologist, Dr. Anil K. Bhardwaj, failed to identify the issue and Mitchell was discharged. However, her condition worsened, leading to a diagnosis of cerebral venous thrombosis days later, resulting in nearly total vision loss.

The jury found Dr. Bhardwaj 90% responsible for the damages.  The award includes compensation for lost earnings, pain and suffering, and medical expenses. This case underscores the devastating impact of medical negligence and the critical need for accountability in healthcare.

The story of Allison Mitchell is not just about a legal victory; it’s about the broader implications for patient safety and healthcare accountability. It’s a reminder that behind every case are real people whose lives are profoundly affected by the medical care they receive. May this case inspire continued diligence and compassion in the medical community.

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