Margaret Vocal cord injury sustained during abdominal surgery

Your Name: Margaret

Patient’s Name/Relationship: Self

City/State: Laurel, MD

When did event occur (what year)? 2017

Where did event occur? Outpatient Surgery Center

What type of medical harm did you experience or witness? Provider Negligence

Please describe what happened. Vocal cord injury (scarred and malfunctioning vocal cords per videostrobe) resulting in persistent (8 months out) hoarseness. Injury occurred during abdominal surgery at Howard County General Hospital. United Health Care has refused reimbursement for follow-up care for which they are responsible per the insurance contract–“Never Events” clause. Howard County Hospital has assigned the Legal Department to the case. Meanwhile, my medical expenses mount and I need additional treatment to restore my voice. It seems legal action is required for Howard County Hospital and United Health Care to act responsibly/held accountable.

What was the outcome of the medical harm issue? Minor injury