Facts

In August 2004, 87-year-old David Woodward received medical treatment at the VA Palo Alto Health Care System, and was diagnosed as being a glaucoma suspect. He visited the hospital several other times for care. Over a period of four and a half years thereafter, Woodward received no treatment from the VA Optometry Department for glaucoma.

Later, the hospital conducted an internal review of care given to 381 patients who were treated for glaucoma or were at risk for the disease. The investigation uncovered the fact that the hospital's optometrists had failed to have glaucoma patients examined by an ophthalmologist. As a result, the hospital informed eight patients, including Woodward, that they had suffered injuries that could have been prevented with an alternate course of treatment.

Woodward sued the hospital for negligence.

PLAINTIFF'S CONTENTIONS:
Plaintiff claimed that he suffered from substantial vision losses resulting in legal blindness due to defendant's negligent medical treatment.

Injuries

Plaintiff suffered from loss of almost all peripheral vision and legal blindness, physical pain, anxiety, and depression. Plaintiff had no wage loss.

Result

The parties reached a settlement amounting to $250,000.