A hospital complex sued for alleged breach of care has been dismissed from the suit.
Joe Vassar filed a lawsuit Jan. 30 against Baptist Hospitals of Southeast Texas-Beaumont in Jefferson County District Court, alleging delayed diagnosis and treatment during his inpatient stay worsened his condition.
Three months later, Vassar filed a motion for non-suit on March 26, stating he no longer wished to pursue the action.
The following day, Judge Kent Walston, 58th District Court, granted the motion, dismissing Baptist without prejudice.
According to the complaint, Vassar was admitted to the defendant’s facility Aug. 20, 2012, for chest pain and remained an inpatient until Sept. 14, 2012, when he was transferred to HealthSouth Rehabilitation Hospital. Vassar's Baptist Hospital records did not reflect a condition called decubitus ulcers forming on his heels or document any wound care assessment, the suit states.
Upon Vassar's arrival at the second facility, HealthSouth staff determined his condition had caused tissue loss and implemented wound care until his ulcers finally healed in February 2014, the suit states. He was unable to walk properly and scarring remained, according to the suit.
Vassar alleged breach of care on the part of Baptist Hospitals in the delay of his rehabilitation.
He was seeking punitive compensation for medical expenses, pain and suffering, attorney fees, expenses and costs.
Attorney Collin Cobb of Harris, Duesler, & Hatfield in Beaumont, represents him.
Jefferson County District Court: case No. A-196653