Medical malpractice involves a slew of acts. These include failing to properly treat a medical patient, surgical mistakes and errors, and assigning incorrect amounts of medication. The unfortunate reality is that enough such acts have happened in recent years to the point that medical malpractice has become the third leading cause of death in the United States.
Victims of medical malpractice suffer a wide range of consequences, including permanent disability and even death. Fortunately, there are lawyers on your side. Licata & Yeremenko, A Professional Law Corporation and our team of California medical malpractice attorneys are at the ready for all your legal needs concerning medical malpractice.
Comedienne Suffers Serious Harm As A Result Of Mental Health Malpractice
Unfortunately, reports of medical malpractice are common throughout Southern California. For example, the California Board of Registered Nursing has decided to back a lawsuit filed against the former nurse, Gerald Baltz, years after the suicide of YouTuber and comedienne Stevie Ryan. The mental health practitioner, located near California, is facing charges of incompetence, misconduct, and gross negligence.
There are numerous reports of malpractice surrounding Baltz’s actions while treating Ryan. These include allegations that Baltz engaged in sexual relations with Ryan on numerous occasions. Given that Ryan had been admitted as a mental patient, the community reacted with outrage after learning of this emotional attachment and complex relationship with Baltz that ended up jeopardizing Ryan’s life. Ryan’s family is also calling for Baltz to answer for the pain that he has inflicted on Ryan and her family. It is reported that they believe that Baltz should have his license revoked, barring him from the ability to prescribe medications and treat patients.
According to the legal filing and related reporting, Ryan had decided to reach out to Baltz as a result of their newfound relationship. She expressed concerns to him about the suicidal thoughts that she was experiencing at the time. Despite confiding in him, he betrayed her trust by advising her to not go to the hospital to be treated for her mental condition. Baltz instead prescribed Ryan a range of medicines for depression, bipolar disorder, and schizophrenia.
This continued for two years before Baltz suggested that they release Ryan from his care due to their relationship. Despite no longer being treated by Baltz, Ryan stayed in the same facility and their relationship continued.
Eventually, Ryan committed suicide, prompting a fierce backlash directed towards Baltz. Baltz is accused of not providing adequate medical care and failing to get supervision despite knowing that Ryan had suicidal thoughts and tendencies. Supporting this is his acknowledgment in text message conversations that his actions had harmed Ryan and potentially placed her at greater risk due to the state of her mental health.
Licata & Yeremenko, A Professional Law Corporation Is Ready To Assist You With Your Potential Medical Malpractice Matter
As illustrated in the case of Stevie Ryan, medical malpractice can have devastating consequences. The California area and surrounding communities have experienced this first-hand as even big-name celebrities are not exempt from the possibility of medical malpractice. Such a serious matter requires professional assistance. Licata & Yeremenko, A Professional Law Corporation recommends reaching out to one of our California medical malpractice attorneys for any questions or concerns relating to medical malpractice. If you or a loved one would like to request a free consultation by clicking here or by calling 818-783-5757 for phone assistance.