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Radiation Overdose Problem, New Law Passed to Protect Patients

In response to over 250 cases of radiation overdose, or accidental overexposures, at Cedars-Sinai Medical Center in Los Angeles, California, Governor Arnold Schwarzenegger signed a bill Wednesday, September 29, 2010. The events were publicized in a New York Times investigative report series looking at overexposure risks.

The law would require hospitals to disclose radiation overdoses during computed tomography exams and to record the doses from all scans in the patient's medical records. The bill's author, Sen. Alex Padilla (D-Pacoima), noted that while the dose appears on the CT operator's computer screen, there was no requirement to make that information available to the patient. "SB 1237 will help protect patients. There is an urgent need for protocols and safeguards to prevent radiation overdoses," said Padilla in prepared remarks in August when he sent the bill to the governor. "This bill will provide physicians the information they need to track dosage levels, identify errors and prevent patients from receiving overdoses of radiation."

A hospital mistake can lead to permanent injury and death. If you suspect that a family member of yours, or a person you care about, may have suffered injuries or death due to radiation overdose or other hospital or medical negligence, you should contact our law firm for your free consultation immediately. Gray and White Law has helped many families whose loved ones have suffered injuries as a result of improper hospital mistakes. Please contact us today for a FREE LEGAL CONSULTATION via confidential e-mail or toll-free at 1-800-634-8767.

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