Lesley Bass has filed suit against an area physician, Dr. William Hawkins, alleging he failed to catch her appendicitis.
The suit was filed July 25 in Jefferson County District Court.
According to the lawsuit, on Aug. 18 Bass visited Dr. Hawkins with complaints of abdominal pain. During her examination, Dr. Hawkins failed to diagnose her with appendicitis and failed to order any follow up exams.
In her suit, Bass says she sought a second opinion and was then diagnosed with appendicitis and immediately scheduled for surgery. However, the delay caused the appendix to rupture.
An open laparotomy was performed and part of Bass' large bowel had to be removed, the suit states.
The suit accuses Dr. Hawkins of negligently failing to preform a detailed exam and falling below the standard of care.
The plaintiff is suing for her alleged past and future medical expenses, mental anguish, pain, impairment, disfigurement and lost wages, plus all court costs.
The plaintiff is represented by Beaumont attorney Adam Terrell of the Weller, Green, Toups & Terrell.
Judge Milton Shuffield, 136th District Court, has been assigned to the case.
Case No. D190-575