HAGÅTÑA (The Guam Daily Post) — A husband and wife have filed suit against the federal government over alleged negligence and medical malpractice committed while the wife was receiving treatment at U.S. Naval Hospital Guam.
Sandra and John Leipheimer are now seeking relief for economic damages as well as non-economic damages related to physical, mental and emotional pain and suffering, in addition to other relief.
The couple filed an initial complaint at the District Court of Guam on Dec. 22, and later filed an amended complaint on Dec. 26.
According to the amended complaint, Sandra Leipheimer was admitted to Naval Hospital for a suspected abscess on the left side of her jaw/face on April 3. She was assessed, underwent surgery, and was discharged on April 5, less than 48 hours after admission, the complaint stated.
Sandra Leipheimer was given oral antibiotics, but her condition only worsened thereafter, according to the complaint. Over the next few days, she would complain about worsening pain, fever, numbness and feelings of toxicity.
Despite reportedly being told that she would need a CT scan, Sandra Leipheimer allegedly was informed on different occasions that the machine was not working. The complaint accused her doctor of failing to address Sandra Leipheimer’s worsening condition, as well as failing to provide care, to refer her to other providers and to otherwise arrange for alternative care.
The complaint also identifies other Naval Hospital personnel and goes on to say that the federal government/hospital failed to assess Sandra Leipheimer’s condition properly throughout treatment, failed to perform proper surgical care, failed to provide a CT scan, failed to provide medical referrals or follow-up treatment and failed in various other regards. This was in addition to other allegations related to negligence and medical malpractice.
“As a direct and proximate result of the negligence of the Defendant in failing to properly diagnose and treat Mrs. Leipheimer, her conditions deteriorated and worsened, directly and proximately causing Mrs. Leipheimer to suffer and continue to suffer personal injuries, complications, losses, damages and pain and suffering,” the complaint stated.
The harm allegedly suffered by Sandra Leipheimer also allegedly caused distress and suffering in her husband, John Leipheimer, the complaint added.
U.S. Naval Hospital Guam is seen Wednesday, Sept. 27, 2023, in Agana Heights.
