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HomeMy WebLinkAbout94-04184 'i , :1 " 'I " ", " , , ' I' I' " " , ;; ," , ' . . .. 8 Q) III i fU III j..~ III .Ill .. C .... . c J 8,.\11 . IQ'~ 0'. ~ ....8 Qj t:lo &lCJ....~ . III . Q) r- ~t: :E Q .S ll.Q)~ IllCC . lol ...t Q) Iol ..... :. III ..... ,,. ~ ~ Q) .c .... J III enllliCll ~II ~ c ....',. ..:l c~ .c:~ ,,. CC /0 - I'OOCIol ,,. ....ll.CI\ CJ CC j....,,. ~ c C r- . ....t:lo ,,. c i 0 .", co, ... .c: . CIl > Q) t en I "'I CD ~ . . ,,. ':> lolCD ...t III U CJ >- CJ .. :1M .1 ... '0 I .~ . ..a N i! I OCll.Q ..:liZIIl ... .,...,.. Iol CC ,,.- I Cl\ lol~ Ill.... i....~~~ . I ....~ !8i el, 1'0'" 8=1Il1llr- . I Ii 0.:' CC Iii /0 "'CC- ....1 I - -, COMMONWEALTH OF PENNSYLVANIA: COUNTY OF CUMBERLAND In The Court of Common Pleas of Cumberland County, Pennsylvania No. 94-4184 Civil Term Writ of Summons and Request for Production of Documents patricia A. Haverstock and William E. Haverstock VS Howard C. Beane, M.D., Beane & Kost P.C. t/d/b/a Beane & Associates and Holy Spirit Hospital Michael Barrick, Deputy Sheriff, who being duly sworn according to law, says that on July 29,1994 at 11:50 o'clock A.M., E.D.S.T.. he served a true copy of the within Writ of Summons and Request for Production of Documents, in the above entitled action, upon the within named defendant, to wit: Howard C.Beane, M.D., Beane & Kost P.C. t/d/b/a Beane & Associates, by making ~nown unto Mary Barber, Office Manager and adult in charge at time of service"at 645 12th Street, Lemoyne, Cumberland County, Pennsylvania. its contents and at the same time handing to her personally the said true and attested copy of the same, Michael Barrick, Deputy Sheriff, who being duly sworn according to law, says that on July 29, 1994 at 12:15 o'clock P.M., E.D.S.T.. he served a true copy of the within Writ of Summons and Request for Production of Documents, in the above entitled action. upon the within named defendants. to wit: Holy Spirit Hospital, by making known unto Ursula Swartz. Administrations Secretary, at North 21st Street, Camp Hill. Cumberland County, Pennsylvania, its contents and at the same time handing to her personally the said true and attested copy of the same. Sheriff's DOCketing Service Surcharge Costs: 22.00 16.80 6.00 44.80 Pd. by Atty. 8-02-94 So Answers: ~~ ~O~/ _ "~~..(' 1 R. ~;~;;: d~IJjZff~ BY"'-~,~~,_ D put~'- 7", ?""",-' BY~ ~ ~(~ ". eputy She ff ") Sworn and Subscribed to Before Me This (J~ Pay of ~I' d' A.D.~.. C:, 1kJ~...... AJl~ry' Pr t onotary " 1994. CBR'I'U.lCATB.""OF_8BBYICB I certify thBt I Bm this day serving B copy of the foregoing document upon the persons and in the mBnner indicated below, which service satisfies the requirements of the Pennsylvania Rules of Civil Procedure, by depositing a copy of SBme in the United States Mail, Harrisburg, Pennsylvania, with first-clBSS postage, prepaid, as follows: Dawn L. Jennings, Esquire Angino & Rovner, P.C. 4503 North Front Street Harrisburg, PA 17110 Howard C. Beane, M.D. BeBne & Kost, P.C. t/d/b/a Beane & Associates 645 12th Street Lemoyne, PA 17043 METTE, EVANS & WOODSIDE By: i L._ SP J,~~/- .J" 'Craig A. Ston~, E~uire Sup. ct. I. D. '15907 3401 North Front Street P. O. Box 5950 Harrisburg, PA 17110-0950 (717) 232-5000 Attorneys for Defendant Holy Spirit Hospital DATE: Y Iv 1'1 'I LCAS1l531 ;11;. . =-= Q~ ... C) ~ 11 " ~r.: ~.~"l I.d..."\.".I' ~I.~"l ~.~ ~~ ,..'),-~. ;) I ",r ~. ' , ..t,_1 'r. ;;- J. , .,j" "s>) . -':) u..;':' '" 'I,,:-rT-" It.,I<lII'I'''''', 1.;'\'......;.., ," ," I',. " ., " " .{ ,1.,'1 II' ,~" ~,,: ," ',1:)1' . -':1" '-)'j' J w ~ 01 L~ ~ ~ j Z . . ( " : : j I , ~ ~ ~ d ~ ~ ~ g . a: i 1 ~ ~ . ( I . , v. IN THE COURT OF COMMON PLEAS CUMBERLAND COUNTY, PENNSYLVANIA CIVIL ACTION - LAW NO. 94-4184 PATRICIA A. HAVERSTOCK and WILLIAM E. HAVERSTOCK1 Plaint ffs HOWARD C. BEANE, M.D.; BEANE & KOST P.C. t/d/b/a BEANE & ASSOCIATES, and HOLY SPIRIT HOSPITAL, Defendants JURY TRIAL DEMANDED NOTICE YOU HAVE BEEN SUED IN COURT. If you wish to defend aqainst the claims set forth in the followinq paqes, you must take action within twenty (20) days after this Complaint and Notice are served, by enterinq a written appearance personally or by attorney and filinq in writinq with the Court your defenses or objections to the claims set forth aqainst you. You are warned that if you fail to do so the case may proceed without you and a judqment may be entered aqainst you by the Court without further notice for any money claimed in the Complaint or for any other claim or relief requested by the Plaintiff. You may lose money or property or other riqhts important to you. YOU SHOULD TAKE THIS PAPER TO YOUR LAWYER AT ONCE. IF YOU DO NOT HAVE A LAWYER OR CANNOT AFFORD ONE, GO TO OR TELEPHONE THE OFFICE SET FORTH BELOW TO FIND OUT WHERE YOU CAN GET LEGAL HELP. Court Administrator, 4th Fl. Cumberland County Courthouse One Courthouse Square Carlisle, PA 17013 240-6200 v. IN THE COURT OF COMMON PLEAS CUMBERLAND COUNTY, PENNSYLVANIA CIVIL ACTION - LAW NO. 94-4184 PATRICIA A. HAVERSTOCK and WILLIAM E. HAVERSTOCK1 Plaint ffs HOWARD C. BEANE, M.D.; BEANE & KOST P.C. t/d/b/a BEANE & ASSOCIATES, and HOLY SPIRIT HOSPITAL, Defendants JURY TRIAL DEMANDED COMPLAINT 1. Plaintiffs patricia A. Haverstock and William E. Haverstock are adult individuals residing in Camp Hill, Cumberland County, Pennsylvania. 2. Defendant Howard C. Beane, M.D. (hereinafter Defendant Beane) is an adult individual licensed to practice medicine in the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania and who at all times relevant herein was a urologist in Camp Hill, Cumberland County, Pennsylvania. 3. Defendant Beane & Kost P.C. t/d/b/a Beane and Associates (hereinafter Beane & Associates) is a professional medical corporation with offices and facilities in Camp Hill, Cumberland County, Pennsylvania. 4. At all relevant times herein, Defendant Beane was acting as the agent, apparent agent, servant, apparent servant, employee and/or apparent employee of Defendant Beane & Kost, P.C. t/d/b/a Beane & Associates and was acting within the scope of his employment. 5. At all relevant times herein, the medical staff, nursing 523B5/MMP staff, and physicians that provided care to Plaintiff Patricia A. Haverstock were acting as ths agents, apparent agents, servants, apparent servants, employees and/or apparent employees of Defendant Beane & Kost, P.C. t/d/b/a/ Beane & Associates and were acting with the scope of their employment. 6. Defendant Holy spirit Hospital is a corporate medical institution with offices and facilities in Camp Hill, Cumberland county, pennsylvania. 7. At all relevant times herein, Defendant Beane was acting as the agent, apparent agent, servant, apparent servant, employee and/or apparent employee of Defendant Holy spirit Hospital and was acting within the scope of his employment. 8. At all relevant times herein, the medical staff, nursing staff, hospital staff, physicians, physical therapists and all other ancillary hospital personnel that provided care to Plaintiff Patricia A. Haverstock in 1992 were acting as the agents, apparent agents, servants, apparent servants, employees and/or apparent employees of Defendant Holy Spirit Hospital and were acting with the scope of their employment. 9. On or around July 10, 1992, Patricia A. Haverstock, a 55 year old woman was admitted to Defendant Holy Spirit Hospital with urinary incontinence. 10. On or around July 10, 1992, Patricia Haverstock underwent a stamey urethropexy surgical procedure performed by Defendant Beane. 11. Defendant Beane performed the above surgical procedure using *2-0 prolene sutures. 12. On or around July 11, 1992, the day after the surgery, Mrs. Haverstock complained to the nurse on duty at Defendant Holy Spirit Hospital and to Defendant Beane of the pain she was experiencing in the right groin region. 13. On or around July 11, 1992, neither Defendant Holy spirit Hospital nor Defendant Beane took any action to explore and/or diagnose the source of pain nor provided any treatment to Mrs. Haverstock for her pain. 14. On July 14, 1992, Patricia A. Haverstock was released from Holy Spirit Hospital. 15. Mrs. Haverstock continued to experience pain in her right groin region which she indicated to Defendant Beane during subsequent appointments. 16. On or around August 29, 1992, Defendant Beane indicated to Mrs. Haverstock during her appointment at his office that the pain was due to adhesions. 17. Defendant Beane did not take any other measures on or around August, 1992 to explore the source of the pain or to treat the pain. 18. Patricia Haverstock continued to experience pain in her right pubic and groin region. On or around September, 1992, a lump began to form in her right pubic and groin region. 19. On or around september 23, 1992, Patricia Haverstock again contacted Defendant Beane at Defendant Beane & Associates regarding the lump and pain. 20. Defendant Beane and Beane & Associates office notes document Patricia Haverstock's call on or around september 23, 1992 and her complaints of swelling in her groin. 21. On or around September 29, 1992, Defendant Beane & Associates' office notes document that Patricia Haverstock was seen in Defendant's office complaining of lumps in or around her right groin pubic region. 22. On or around september 29, 1992, Defendant Beane did not examine or diagnose patricia Haverstock as to the cause of the lump or the source of the pain. 23. Defendant Beane did not prescribe any medication and did not provide any treatment for the lump and pain during the above office visit. 24. On or around october, 1992, Patricia Haverstock began to experience drainage from the area of the lump in or around her right public area and groin region. Patricia Haverstock contacted Defendant Beane regarding drainage. No one responded to this call. 25. On or around November 5, 1992, the lump in Mrs. Haverstock's right pubic and groin region developed an open wound approximately an inch in diameter which was infected and draining. 26. On or around November 5, 1992, Defendant Beane & Associates' office notes document that Mrs. Haverstock was seen by Or. Beane. De fondant Beane prescribed Neosporin cream, an over- the-counter drug to treat this infection. 27. Mrs. Haverstock continued to experience great pain as well as drainage from the open wound that had developed in her right pubic and groin region. 28. Approximately six months after surgery, patricia Haverstock's urinary incontinence reoccurred. 29. Defendant Beane's office notes document on or around July 28, 1993 a small amount of leakage in the right incision area. Defendant Beane did not take any measures at that time to treat this area. 30. On November 21, 1993, Mrs. Haverstock again phoned in due to the soreness and pain she was experiencing in her right groin region. However, again, neither Defendant Beane nor Defendant Beane & Associates took any measures to diagnose or treat the source of the pain. 31. On April 14, 1994, Patricia Haverstock saw her OB/GYN, who diagnosed her as suffering from a draining wound on the right side of her pubic region after her bladder surgery. At that time, he referred her to a general surgeon. 32. On or around April, 1994, Patricia Haverstock's urinary incontinence worsened. 33. On April 19, 1994, Patricia Haverstock saw a general surgeon regarding the pain and lumps on her right pubic region. After careful examination, the surgeon diagnosed a small, four millimeter pustula and an immediately inferior sinus tract with a blue piece of suture protruding. 34. On or around April 19, 1994, the surgeon excised an eight millimeter length of 0 prolene suture from the lower sinus tract. At that time, he performed an incision and drainage of the pustule. 35. On or around July 11, 1994 an exploration of the right groin and excision of foreign body of the right groin was performed at polyclinic Medical Center. During this procedure, a large bluish knot of prolene was excised. Additionally, eight millimeter of two to three millimeter internal diameter of plastic material was excised. COUNT I PATRICIA HAVERSTOCK AND WILLIAM E. HAVERSTOCK V. HOWARD C. BEANE. M.D. 36. Paragraphs 1 through 35 are incorporated herein by reference. 37. Defendant Beane is liable to Plaintiff for the injuries which were directly and proximally caused by Defendant's negligence in: (a) performing the stamey urethropexy on July 10, 1992, but failing to secure the sutures; (b) performing the stamey urethropexy on July 10, 1992, in such a manner that the sutures became loose, lodging in Plaintiff's right groin and pubic region causing an abscess; (c) performing a stamey urethropexy in such a manner that the sutures loosened and detached, lodging in Plaintiffs' right pubic and groin region forming an infected open wound; (d) failing to perform the stamey urethropexy so that the sutures would remain intact and in position; (e) using the wrong type and/or size of suture necessary to perform a stamey Urethropexy; (f) failing to perform any post operative diagnostic testing to determine the competency of the bladder and placement of the sutures; (g) failing to diagnose the foreign body found within the right groin and pubic region; (h) failing to diagnose the purulent drainage from the right groin region; (i) failing to examine Plaintiff's right groin region for any possible foreign body; (j) failing to examine Mrs. Haverstock's right groin region for any continuous purulent drainage despite the knowledge of such drainage; (k) failing to determine the origin of Plaintiff's complaints of pain and drainage in the right groin region prior to April, 1994; (1) failing to explore the right groin region to determine the presence of any foreign bodies prior to April, 1994; (m) failing to explore the right groin region to determine the source of any infection prior to April, 1994; (n) failing to prescribe any antibiotic treatment to treat the infection in the right groin and pubic region; (0) failing to recognize the chronic drainage of Plaintiff's right groin; (p) failing to remove the foreign bodies of Plaintiff's right groin region; (q) failing to recognize the significance of Plaintiff's pain, drainage and open wound of the right groin and pubic region; (r) recognizing the patient had an infection prior to April 14, 1994 but failing to take steps to determine where the infection was located, the nature of the infection or prevent the spread or continued growth of the infection. COUNT II PATRICIA HAVERSTOCK AND WILLIAM E. HAVERSTOCK V. BEAN & KOST tLQLP./a BEANE & ASSOCIATES 38. Paragraphs 1 through 35 and Count I are incorporated herein by reference. 39. At all times relevant herein, Defendant Howard C. Beane, M.D. and all medical personnel including physicians and nurse that provided care to Plaintiff Patricia Haverstock were acting as agents, apparent agents, servants, apparent servants, employees and/or apparent employees of Defendant Beane & Kost, P.C. t/d/b/a Beane & Associates and were acting in the scope of employment. 40. Defendant Beane & Kost, P.C. t/d/b/a Beane & Associates acting through its agent, apparent agents, servants, apparent servants, employees and/or apparent employees is liable to the Plaintiffs for injuries alleged herein which were directly and proximally caused by the De fendant' s negl igence by the acts set forth in paragraphs (a) through (r) above and incorporated herein by reference. COUNT II I PATRICIA HAVERSTOCK AND WILLIAM E._ HAVERSTOCK V. HOLY SPIRIT HOSPITAL 41. paragraphs 1 through 35 and Count I are incorporated herein by reference. 42. At all relevant times herein, Defendant Howard C. Beane, M.D., all emergency room staff, all nursing staff, all medical personnel, all hospital personnel, radiologist, all physical therapists and any other ancillary hospital staff who provided care to Plaintiff Patricia A. Haverstock in 1992 were the agents, apparent agents, servants apparent servants, employees and/or apparent employees of Defendant Holy Spirit Hospital and were acting in the scope of their employment. 43. Defendant Holy Spirit Hospital acting through its agents, apparent agents, servllnts and/or employees including Defendant Howard C. Beane, M.D. and all emergency room staff, all nursing staff, all hospital personnel, radiologist, and any other ancillary hospital staff is liable to the Plaintiff for damages as alleged herein were directly and proximally caused by its negligence in: (a) failing to insure that Mrs. Haverstock recElived appropriate medical treatment while a patient at Defendant Holy spirit Hospital when they knew or should have known that substandard treatment could cause other medical problems; (b) performing the stamey urethropexy on July 10, 1992, but failing to secure the sutures; (c) performing the stamey urethropexy on July 10, 1992, in such a manner that the sutures became loose, lOdging in Plaintiff's right groin and pubic region causing an abscess; (d) performing a stamey urethropexy in such a manner that the sutures loosened and detached, lodging in Plaintiffs' right pubic and groin region forming an infected open wound; ee) failing to perform the stamey urethropexy so that the sutures would remain intact and in position; ef) using the wrong type and/or size of suture necessary to perform a stamey Urethropexy; (g) failing to perform any post operative diagnostic testing to determine the competency of the bladder and placement of the sutures; (h) failing to recognize plaintiff's pain in her right pubic and qroin region, the source of that pain, and the nature of her pain; (i) failing to report and notify the treating physicians of the existence of Plaintiff's complaints of pain. CLAIM I PATRICIA A. HAVERSTOCK V. HOWARD C. BEANE, M.D.; BEANE & KOST P.C. t/d/b/a, BEANE & ASSOCIATES, and HOLY SPIRIT HOSPITAL 44. Paragraphs one through and Counts I, II, and III are incorporated herein by reference. 45. As a direct result of Defendant's negligence, Patricia Haverstock underwent two additional surgical procedures and a claim is made therefor. 46. As a direct result of Defendant's negligence, Patricia Haverstock suffered significant injuries and claim is made therefor. 47. As a direct result of the Defendant's negligence, Plaintiff patricia Haverstock has incurred, and in the future may incur, medical expenses and a claim is made therefor. 48. As a direct result of the Defendant's negligence, Plaintiff patricia Haverstock has undergone mental and physical pain and SUffering, great inconvenience in carrying out her daily activities, and a loss of life's pleasures and enjoyment and a ( r' ~ I claim i. made therefor. 49. As a direct result of this incident, Plaintiff Patricia Haverstock is permanently scarred causing her considerable emotional injury and a claim is made therefor. 50. As a direct result of this incident, Plaintiff patricia Haverstock suffered a loss of earnings an a claim is made therefor. WHEREFORE, Plaintiff prays for judgment against Defendant in an amount in excess of Ten Thousand ($10,000) Dollars, exclusive of interest and costs, and in excess of any jurisdictional amount requiring compulsory arbitration. CLAIM I I WILLIAM E. HAVERSTOCK V. HOWARD C. BEANE, M.D.; BEANE & KOST P.C. t/d/b/a, BEANE & ASSOCIATES, and HOLY SPIRIT HOSPITAL I 51. Complaint I I length. 'j 52. paragraphs 1 through 35 and Counts I, II, III of this are incorporated herein by reference as if set forth at Defendants are jointly and severally liable to william Haverstock for damages as set forth herein. 53. By reason of the aforesaid injuries sustainod by his wife, Plaintiff, William Haverstock has been, and in the future may be, deprived of the assistance, companionship, consortium, and society of his wifo, and a claim is made therefor. WHEREFORE, Plaintiff prays for judgment against Defendant in 5. The averments of Paragraph 3 are incorporated by reference as though fully set forth. 6. Admitted. 7. It is denied that Or. Beane was acting as the agent, apparent agent, servant, apparent servant, employee and/or apparent employee of Defendant Hospital at any time material to Plaintiffs' Complaint. Rather, at all times material to Plaintiffs' Complaint, Dr. Beane acted as an independent contractor and staff physician who was not subject to control by Holy Spirit Hospital concerning specific operative techniques and/or the choice and use of specific surgical supplies and materials. 8. It is admitted that plaintiff was treated by persons who were agents, servants and employees, actual or ostensible, of Holy Spirit Hospital, through and including July 1~, 1992. In that the alleged agents, servants and employees, actual and/or ostensible, are not identified by name in the averments of the corresponding Paragraph, after reasonable investigation, Defendant Hospital is without information or knowledge sufficient to form a belief as to the truth of the averments of the corresponding Paragraph, the same are therefore denied and - 2 - strict proof, if relevant, is demanded at time of trial. The averments of the preceding Paragraph are incorporated by reference as though fully set forth. 9. It is admitted that Or. Beane admitted Mrs. Haverstock to Defendant Hospital on July 10, 1992 with admitting diagnoses of urinary stress and incontinence and nicotine addiction. Defendant Hospital's records are incorporated by reference as though fully set forth. lO. It is admitted that on October 10, 1992, Dr. Beane performed a Stamey urethropexy on Mrs. Haverstock at Holy Spirit Hospital. ll. According to the operative report, '2-0 prolene sutures as well as other suture materials were used in the course of the surgical procedure. 12. The averments of Paragraph 12 are denied in accordance with Pennsylvania Rule of Civil Procedure 1029(e) and as though an Appearance were entered. The averments of portions of Paragraph 12 are for answer by Dr. Beane and not Defendant Hospital. The applicable nursing care notes from Defendant Hospital's records are incorporated by reference. - 3 - 13. Denied. Rather, according to the Defendant Hospital's records, Mrs. Haverstock received Tylenol at 9:45 a.m. and 8:00 p.m. on July 11, 1992 in response to complaints of pelvic pain. The Tylenol had been ordered, as needed, by Dr. Beane. The balance of the averments of Paragraph 13 are denied in accordance with Pennsylvania Rule of Civil Procedure 1029(e) and as though an Appearance were entered. 14. It is admitted that Mrs. Haverstock was discharged from Holy Spirit Hospital by Or. Beane on July 14, 1992. 15.-35. After reasonable investigation, Defendant Hospital is without information or knowledge sufficient to form a belief as to the truth of the averments of Paragraphs 15 through 35, inclusive, of Plaintiffs' Complaint, the same are therefore denied and strict proof, if relevant, is demanded at time of trial. COUN'l'J Patricia Haverstock awlWillial1tE....lIaYel'lltnl!Ir v. lIowanlC..JJeau.e.M.D.. 36. The averments of Paragraphs 1 through 35 of this Answer with New Matter are incorporated herein by reference as though fully set forth. - 4 - VERIFICATION I, TENLEY WILLIAMSON, an authorized representative of Holy Spirit Hospital, hereby acknowledge that I have read the foregoing document and that the facts stated therein are true and correct to the best of my knOWledge, information and belief. I understand that any false statements herein are made subject to penalties of 18 Pa. C.S. S4904, relating to unsworn falsification to authorities. HOLY SPIRIT HOSPITAL /1 /'. JAI'.& ~UI<C; d/M -'f-) TENLEY LLIAMSON ASSISTANT DIRECTOR - RISK MANAGEMENT DATED: \\\\4\ q~ , . v. IN THE COURT OF COMMON PLEAS CUMBERI~D COUNTY, PENNSYLVANIA CIVIL ACTION - LAW NO. 94-4184 PATRICIA A. HAVERSTOCK and WILLIAM E. HAVERSTOCK, plaintiffs HOWARD C. BEANE, M.D., BEANE' KOST P.C. t/d/b/a BEANE , ASSOCIATES, and HOLY SPIRIT HOSPITAL, Defendants JURY TRIAL DEMANDED PLAINTIFFS' RESPONSE TO NEW MATTER OF DEFENDANT. HOLY SPIRIT HOSPITAL 1. The allegations herein state a conclusion of law to which no response i. necessary. To the extent that a respon.e b necessary, Plaintiffs specifically deny that the claims are barred by a statute of limitation. 2. The allegations herein state a conclusion of law to which no response is necessary. To the extent that a response i. necessary, Plaintiffs specifically deny that the Complaint fait. to state a claim upon which relief can be granted against Defendant, Holy Spirit Hospital. 3. The allegations herein state a conclusion of law to which no response is necessary. To the extent that a response is necessary, Plaintiffs specifically deny that the damages did not result from the acts or omissions of the agents, servants, or employees of Defendant, Holy Spirit Hospital. 4. The allegations herein state a conclusion of law to which no response is necessary. To the extent that a response ill necessary, Plaintiffs specifically deny that the answering . . AND NOW, thi. CERTIFICATE OF SERVICE \,:11 c2ay of I)" , , 1994 I, J...i. K. Wahh, an .mploy.. of An4jJino , Rovner, P.C., do hereby c.rtify that I have ..rv.c2 a true anc2 correct copy or the PLAINTIFFS' RESPONSE TO NEW MATTER OF DEFNDANT HOLY SPIRIT HOSPITAL in the unitec2 State. mail, po.tag. prepaic2 at Harrisburg, Pennsylvania, ac2c2r....c2 a. follow.1 Leigh Ellis, Esquire 1850 William Penn Way Suite 209 P.O. Box 10696 Lancaster, PA 17605-0696 Craig A. Stone, Esquire METTE, EVANS , WOODSIDE 3401 North Front street P.O. Box 5950 Harrisburg, PA. 17110 -;'-// " ( / '- ./."..1>-1, .(j fL_kt.:J{ '- Jessie K. Walsh 3 ,I I, ~ i::.... .. ::r; ,:;1..: ~"" '" ., N '.' '. ""', ,.. . ". - - Ln ~ '... ., , <::l i."....; therefore denied, and strict proof thereof is demanded at trial, if relevant. s. Denied. The allegations contained in paragraph five (5) of the Complaint are conclusions of law to which the Pennsylvania Rules of civil Procedure require no responsive pleading, are therefore denied, and str ict proof thereof is demanded at tr ia l, if relevant. 6. The allegations of paragraph four (4) are not applicable to answering Defendants. 7. Denied. The allegations contained in paragraph seven (7) of the Complaint are conclusions of law to which the Pennsylvania Rules of civil Procedure require no responsive pleading, are therefore denied, and strict proof thereof is demanded at trial, if relevant. 8. The allegations of paragraph eight (B) are not applicable to answering Defendants. 9. It is admitted that Mrs. Haverstock was admitted to Holy Spirit Hospital on July 10, 1992 with an admitting diagnosis of urinary stress incontinence and nicotine addiction. Further, it is admitted that at the time Mrs. Haverstock was fifty-five years old. By way of further answer, plaintiff I s medical records are in writing and speak for themselves and are incorporated herein by reference. 10. Admitted. 11. It is admitted that during the operative procedure, #2 prolene sutures were used. It is further admitted that other 2 lJuture materials were also used as set forth in the operative report which is in writing and speaks for itself. 12. Denied as stated. Mrs. Haverstock's medical condition is documented in writing in the medical records which speak for themselves and no further response is required. To the extent the averments differ from those recorded in the medical records than they are denied as stated and strict proof thereof is demanded at trial. 13. Denied. The plaintiffs are referred to defendant Hospital'S records which indicate which treatment was provided to Mrs. Haverstock. To the extent this averment applies that Dr. Beane acted improperly or was in anyway negligent it is specifically denied and strict proof thereof is demanded. 14. Admitted. 15. Denied as stated. Mrs. Haverstock's condi.tion as reported to Or. Beane is documented in writing in his medical records which speak for themselves and no further response is required. 16. Denied as stated. It is admitted that there was an office visit on August 27, 1992. Plaintiffs are referred to Dr. Beane's office records which speak for themselves and no further response is required. 17. Denied as stated. Mrs. Haverstock's condition as reported to Or. Beane is documented in wI'iting in his medical records which speak for themselves and no further response is required. To the extent this averment appl ies that Dr. Beane acted 3 improperly or was in anyway negligent it is specifically denied sl,d strict proof thereof is demanded. lB. Denied. After reasonable investigation, Defendants are without knowledge or information sufficient to form a belief as to the truth of the averments in paragraph eighteen (lB), and therefore, demand strict proof thereof at trial, if relevant. 19. Denied as stated. It is admitted that on september 23, 1992 Mrs. Haverstock telephoned Dr. Beane's office. At that time, Mrs. Haverstock complained of swelling in her groin. 20. Admitted. 21. Dr. Beane's office's notes are in writing which speak for themselves and no further response is required. 22-23. Or. Beane did not examine or treat Mrs. Haverstock on the September 29, 1992 visit, rather, Or. Kachel examined Mrs. Haverstock. Further, the office notes from that visit are in writing and speak for themselves. 24. Denied. After reasonable investigation, Defendants are without knowledge or information sufficient to form a belief as to the truth of the averments .in paragraph twenty-four (24), and therefore, demand strict proof thereof at trial, if relevant. 25. Denied. After reasonable investigation, Defendants are without knowledge or information sufficient to form a belief as to the truth of the averments in paragraph twenty-five (25), and therefore, demand strict proof thereof at trial, if relevant. 4 26. Denied as stated. Or. Beane's office notes are in writing which speak for themselves and no further rosponse i. required. 27. Denied. After reasonable investigation, Defendants are without knowledge or information sufficient to form a belief as to the truth of the averments in paragraph twenty-seven (27), and therefore, demand strict proof thereof at trial, if relevant. 2B. Denied. After reasonable investigation, Defendants are without knowledge or information sufficient to form a belief as to the truth of the averments in paragraph twenty-eight (2B), and therefore, demand strict proof thereof at trial, if relevant. 29. Denied as stated. Or. Beane's office notes are in writing which speak for themselves and no further response is required. To the extent this averment implies that Or. Beane was negligent, it is specifically denied. 30. Denied as stated. It is admitted that there was a telephone conversation on November 21, 1993. It is specifically denied that Or. Beane failed to take appropriate measures or was in anyway negligent. 31. Denied. After reasonable investigation, Defendants are without knowledge or information sufficient to form a belief as to the truth of the averments in paragraph thirty-one (31), and therefore, demand strict proof thereof at trial, if relevant. 32. Denied. After reasonable investigation, Defendants are without knowledge or information sufficient to form a belief as to 5 thu truth of the averments in paragraph thirty-two (32), and therefore, demand strict proof thereof at trial, if relevant. 33. Denied. After reasonable investigation, Defendants are without knowledge or information sufficient to form a belief as to the truth of the averments in paragraph thirty-three (33), and therefore, demand strict proof thereof at trial, if relevant. 34. Denied. After reasonable investigation, Defendants are without knowledge or information sufficient to form a belief as to the truth of the averments in paragraph thirty-four (34), and therefore, demand strict proof thereof at trial, if relevant. 35. Denied. After reasonable investigation, Defendants are without knowledge or information sufficient to form a belief as to the truth of the averments in paragraph thirty-five (35), and therefore, demand strict proof thereof at trial, if relevant. COt1N'l' I 36. Defendants, Howard C. Beane, M.D. and Beane & Kost, P.C., incorporate harein by reference the averments contained in paragraphs one (1) through thirty-five (35) of the foregoing Answer as if fully set forth herein. 37 a-r. Denied. It is specifically denied that Defendant, Howard C. Beane, M.D. was negligent and careless in his care and treatment of plaintiff. To the contrary, Defendant, Howard C. Beane, M.D. was at no time negligent and tended to the plaintiff competently in accordance with accepted standards of care consistent with the standards of the medical profession within the communi ty. Moreover, the allegations contained in paragraph 6 thirty-seven (37), subparagraphs (a-r) are conclusions of law to which the Pennsylvania Rules of civil Procedure require no responsive pleading, are therefore denied, and strict proof is demanded at trial, if relevant. Additionally, all allegations of causation and consequential injury are specifically denied as improper legal oonclusions and strict proof is demanded at trial. with respect to plaintiff's allegations of injury, after reasonable investigation, Defendants are without knowledge or information sufficient to form a belief as to the truth of the averments in paragraph thirty-seven (37), subparagraphs (a-r) and therefore, demand strict proof thereof at trial, if relevant. COUNT II 38. Defendants, Howard C. Beane, M.D. and Beane & Kost, P.c., incorporate herein by reference the averments contained in paragraphs one (1) through thirty-seven (37) of the foregoing Answer as if fully set forth herein. 39. Denied. The allegations contained in paragraph thirty- nine (39) of the complaint are conclusions of law to which the Pennsylvania Rules of Civil Procedure require no responsive pleading, are therefore denied, and strict proof thereof is demanded at trial, if relevant. 40. Denied. The allegations contained in paragraph forty (40) of the Complaint are conclusions of law to which the Pennsylvania Rules of civil Procedure require no responsive pleading, are therefore denied, and strict proof thereof is demanded at trial, if relevant. 7 COUNT .Ill 41. Defendants, Howard C. Beane, M.D. and Beane & Kost, P.c., incorporate herein by reference the averments contained in paragraphs one (1) through forty (40) of the foregoing Answer as if fully set forth herein. 42-43. The allegations of paragraphs forty-two (42) and forty-three (43) are not applicable to answering Defendants. CLAIM I 44. Defendants, Howard C. Beane, M.D. and Beane & Kost, P.C., incorporate herein by reference the averments Gontained in paragraphs one (1) through forty-three (43) of the foregoing Answer as if fully set forth herein. 45-50. Denied. It is specifically denied that Defendants, Howard C. Beane, M.D. and Beane & Kost, P.C., were negligent. To the contrary, Defendant, Howard C. Beane, M.D. was at no time negligent and tended to the plaintiff competently in accordance with accepted standards of care: consistent with the standards of the medical profession within the community. Moreover, the allegations contained in paragraphs forty-five (45) through fifty (50) are conclusions of law to which the Pennsylvania Rules of Civil Procedure require no responsive pleading, are therefore denied, and strict proof is demanded at trial, if relevant. Additionally, all allegations of causation and consequential injury are specifically denied as improper legal conclusions and strict proof is demanded at trial. with respect to plaintiff's allegations of injury, after reasonable investigation, Defendants B are without knowledge or information sufficient to form a belief as to the truth of the avermonts in paragraphs forty-five (45) through fifty (50) and therefore, demand strict proof thereof at trial, if relevant. WHERE.'ORE, Defendants, Howard C. Beane, M.D. and Beane & Kost, P.C., respectfully request that this Court grant judgment in their favor and against the Plaintiffs on the Complaint, together with costs, expenses and attorney's fees. CLAIM II 51. Defendants, Howard C. Beane, M.D. and Beane & Kost, P.c., incorporate herein by referenco the averments contained in paragraphs one (1) through fifty (50) of the foregoing Answer as if fully set forth herein. 52-53. Denied. It is specifically denied that Defendants, Howard C. Beane, M.D. and Beane & Kost, P.C., were negligent. To the contrary, Defendant, Howard C. Beane, M.D. was at no time negligent and tended to the plaintiff competently in accordance with accepted standards of care consistent with the standards of the medical profession within the community. Moreover, the allegations contained in paragraphs fifty-two (52) and fifty-three (53) are conclusions of law to which the Pennsylvania Rules of Civil Procedure require no responsive pleading, are therefore denied, and strict proof is demanded at trial, if relevant. Additionally, all allegations of causation and consequential injury are specifically denied as improper legal conclusions and strict proof is demanded at trial. with respect to plaintiff's 9 . allegations of injury, after reasonable investigation, Defendants are without knowledge or information sufficient to form a belief as to the truth of the averments in paragraphs fifty-two (52) and fifty-three (53) and therefore, demand strict proof thereof at trial, if relevant. Nil" MATTIlR 54. Defendants, Howard C. Beane, M.D. and Beane & Kost, P.c., incorporate herein by reference the averments contained in paragraphs one (1) through fifty-three (53) of the foregoing Answer as if fully set forth herein. 55. The Plaintiffs' Complaint fails to state a claim upon which relief can be granted. 56. Plaintiffs' claims are barred in whole or in part by the doctrines of contributory/comparative negligence and assumption of risk. 57. Plaintiffs have not sustained any injuries cognizable under Pennsylvania law as a consequence of answering Defendants alleged action. 58. Plaintiffs' claims are barred in whole or in part because Plaintiff's alleged injuries, if any, were not caused by the actions of Defendants, Howard C. Beane, M.D. and Beane & Kost, P.C. 59. Plaintiffs' claims are barred because the Plaintiffs have sustained no injuries in fact. 60. Plaintiffs' claims are barred by the applicable statute of limitations. 10 Detendants alleged action. Furthermore, plaintitts have sustained injuries recoqnized under Pennsylvania Law as a result of the actions of answerinq Detendants. 158. The allegation herein states a conclusion of law to which no response is necessary. To the extent that a response ia nece.sary, Plaintiffs specifically deny that their claims are barred in whole or in part because Plaintitts' alleged injuries were not caused by the action ot Defendants, Howard C. Beane, M.D. and Beane and Kost, P.C. 159. The allegation herein state. a conclusion of law to which no response is necessary. To the extent that a response is necessary, Plaintiffs specitically deny that her claims are barred because she sustained no injuries. In tact, the Complaint sutticiently sets out the injuries sustained by Plaintitt.. 60. The allegation herein states a conclusion of law to which no response is necessary. To the extent that a response is necessary, Plaintifts specifically deny that her claims are barred by the applicable statute of limitations. 61. The allegation herein states a conclusion of law to which no response is necessary. To the extent that a respon.e i. necessary, Plaintiffs specitically deny that they have not alleged tacts sufficient to support their allegations of neqligence. Furthermore, Detendants tailed to tile timely preliminary 2 CERTIFICATE OF SERVICE \t'I' I \ AND NOW, this ' day of "I J' , 19915 I, Je..ie It. Wal.h, an employee of Angino , Rovner, P.c., do hereby certify that I have .erved a true and correct copy of Plaintiff.' An.wer to New Matter of Defendant. Howard C. Beane, M.D. and Beane' !to.t, P.C. in the United Stat.. mail, po.tag. pr.paid at Harri.burq, P.nn.ylvania, addr....d a. follow.: Leiqh Ellie, Esquire 1850 William Penn Way Suite 209 P.O. Box 10696 Lanca.ter, PA 17605-0696 Craiq A. Stone, Esquir. METTE, EVANS , WOODSIDE 3401 North Front Street P.O. Box 5950 Harrisburg, PA. 17110 ) I . " / td,k t) ( ~/"..J'~i{ "- J...i. It. Wal.h . . ~1 r Y ') f' l(Jnr~ .I I ,I ,_n "J..'u"'..... PATRICIA A. HAVERSTOCK and WILLIAM I. HAVERSTOCK, plaintiff. I IN THI COURT or COMMON PLIAS I CUMBERLAND COUNTY, PENNSYLVANIA I I CIVIL ACTION - LAW I NO. 94-4184 I I I I I I JURY TRIAL DEMANDED v. HOWARD C. BEANE, M.D.; BIAN! . KOST P.C. t/d/b/a BIAN! . ASSOCIATES, and HOLY SPIRIT HOSPITAL, Defendant. ORDER Con.iderinq the foregoing Motion to Withdraw a. Coun.el of Record for the Plaintiff., Patricia A. Haverstock and William I. Haver.tock. IT IS HEREBY ORDERED that Dawn L. Jenning., Esquire and the law fin of Angino , Rovner, P.C. are granted leave of Court to withdraw a. counsel of record for the Plaintiff., Patricia A. Haver.took and William E. Haverstock. IT IS FURTHER ORDERED that Plaintiffs, Patricia A. Haver.took and William E. Haver.tock, are granted 90 day. to retain new coun.el and have that attorney enter an appearance on their behalf in thia action. J. ... PATRICIA A. HAVERSTOCK and WILLIAM I. HAVERSTOCK, plaintiff. IN THI COURT or COMMON PLIAS CUMBERLAND COUNTY, PENNSYLVANIA CIVIL ACTION - LAW NO. 114-4184 v. HOWARD C. BBANE, N.D., BlANE , KOST P.C. t/d/b/a BlANE , ASSOCIATES, and HOLY SPIRIT HOSPITAL, Detendant. JURY TRIAL DEMANDED MOTION TO WITHDRAW AS COUNSEL OF RECORD AND NOW into Court come. Dawn L. Jenning., Esquire and the law tirm ot Anqino , Rovner, P.C. and respecttully move. tor an order qrantinq leave to withdraw .s counsel of record on behalt ot the Plaintiff., Patricia A. Haverstock and William E. Haverstock, Counsel has corresponded with Plaintitts about hirinq a new attorney. Undersiqned counsel there tore respect tully request. that this Honorable Court grant leave to withdraw as counsel ot record tor Plaiiltiffs in this action and to turther qrant Plaintitts an additional 90 days to retain new counsel and have their new attorney enter an appearance on hi. behalt. 2 " ~ ~:>'. - :r.: <>- C) q M I.. ..; ~~ J ',' l~. ;") ,~, :, " c:::I l , ~ t.' ., ",.,t ... ,'l" ..,. ".0 t" "9 lit: ..... -, -' ........ I.. .. l . -oil c. I': ~: HJ. " ..... Ef . ~ ,I ~ ....; '1 .jr. ~1: . - . ,'" I LJ':' I' C' ,Ii,',' . ')1)... 'I ....- " r- ,J ,J () ':1'. ~ 'tt ~ r :t1.","",,:. "1-\',\":"'H ~ 'I)\'Ol'.lnl'luH:' ,......fr,.l.nd.'lfJ Ar Lr.\'t' HAI1"m!ln'Jll'~ PIHIN,iYL.y,INIA 1-/110(1')'1'"1 ... O. IIUi( !~9!10 1Vi~\H l\ ;j 1~1~~)f...- ~ L! ~ ~ ~ : " () . U II! I ~ I · rl .~,../ '." '. { I. ~. I . 1 .i IJ ;- r- ~ ~f Q ~'.. .. .~~~,. e:~?: ...:r I..)";': f.-I ~,~.: "...).? -? ...... ~~.J ;?j '" ~') t- o"~ ~:-. ',,' It? )11 N ..1..;, 0-'" Eel.l! 00: <l~ 0.. r..." ...~ D !'!. CXl a u C7I '., 6; ,.... ::.. _"t 1:-: ~..; ..',. .. "'J.,eJO IIJ~~ ,'oJ ).., t);~,.. "ll:: :.)~F /I: "' ~ I=:J 't'r ;..>- '1'("' '3\ !IJ) 6'" I ,: I C;; '1': 'i15 0.:'1. :t! II L ~ ",Jr:<.- r~ "'ie ~ ex) r:_) en c) ~ PORR , ASSOCIATES, P.C. BY: Daniel L. Grill Identification No. ~S339 1850 William Penn Way suite 209 P.O. Box 10696 Lancaster, PA 17605-0696 (717) 390-3020 60,224 Attorneys for Defendants: Howard C. Beane, M.D. and Beane & Kost, P.C. PATRICIA A. HAVERSTOCK and WILLIAM E. HAVERSTOCK COURT OF COMMON PLEAS OF CUMBERLAND COUNTY v. HOWARD C. BEANE, M.D. and BEANE & KOST, P.C. t/d/b/a BEANE & ASSOCIATES No. 94-4184 JURY TRIAL DEMANDED AM.NDBD NBW MATTER TO PLAINTIFFS' COMPLAINT OF DEFBNDANTS HOWARD C. BEANE. M.D. AND BEANE' ASSOCIATES Defendants, Howard C. Beane, M. D. and Beane & Associates, hereby amend their New Matter to Plaintiffs' Complaint (or Amended complaint) to include the following averments: 1. Defendants were insured under a policy issued by Physicians Insurance Company (PIC). 2. The Commonwealth Court of Pennsylvania entered an Order of Liquidation with a finding of insolvency against PIC effective January 21, 199B. 3. As a result of the Liquidation order, the provisions of 40 P.S. S 991.1817 (a) apply to the plaintiffs' claim. This provision provides, in relevant part, that: Any person having a claim under an insurance policy shall be required to exhaust first his right under such policy. For purposes of this section, a claim under an insurance policy shall include a claim under any kind of insurance, whether it is first-party or third- party claim, and shall include, without (), PORR , ASSOCIATES, P.C. Daniel L. Grill, Esquire 1.0. No. 65339 1850 William Penn Way P. O. Box 10696 Lance.ter, PA 17605-0696 (717) 390-3020 PATRICIA A. HAVERSTOCK and WILLIAM E. HAVERSTOCK Attorneys for Defendants Howard C. Beane, M.D. and Beane' Kost, P.C. COURT OF COMMON PLEAS CUMBERLAND COUNTY, PENNA. v. HOWARD C. BrANE, M.D. and BEANE' KOST, P.C., t/d/b/a BEANE , ASSOCIATES No. 94-4184 IIOTtOIl TO COIIPlL OJ' DIlJ'llNDANT8 HOWARD C. BIANIl, lI.n.' MID DIANI . lOST. P.C. tJ4JbJa BIlANI . ASSOCIATlla; ,~ r. ".j The Defendants, Howard C. Beane, M.D. and Beane ~ !Cost,;' , ) " " " '..) ,', :' J P.C., t/d/b/a Beane & Associates, by and through their, ~tto~#leYar\ . F r"..J il'r1 Porr , Associates, p.e., hereby file the present Motion~~o ~pmp'~l ~.... (..v ...... Plaintiffs to Answer Defendants' discovery requests, and in support thereof allege the following: 1. The Plaintiffs instituted this medical malpractice action by filing a Praecipe for Writ of Summons on July 27, 1994 2. On August 11, 1994, the Defendants served Plaintiffs' counsel with discovery requests including Interrogatories - Set 1 and Set 2, and Request for Production of Documents - Set 1 and Set 2. 3. The Defendants ruled the Plaintiffs to file a Complaint on August 12, 1994. 4. The Plaintiffs filed a Complaint against the moving Defendants on October 31, 1994. 5. On May 30, 1995, counsel for Plaintiffs filed a Motion to Withdraw as counsel of record. A Rule was issued on that date by Judge J. Wesley Oler, Jr., 6. No objections were lodged to the Motion to withdraw as counsel of record, and Plaintiffs' counsel was granted leave to withdraw on September 1, 1995. 7. The Plaintiffs have failed to supply answers to Defendants' discovery within thirty days of service of same, in violation of Pa.R.e.p. Nos. 4006 and 4009. 8. The Plaintiffs did not file objections to Defendants' discovery requests within thirty days after service of same. 9. To date, th~ Plaintiffs have failed to respond in any way to Defendants' discovery requests. 10. The information requested in Defendants' discovery is either in the possession of the Plaintiffs, or the source thereof is under their control. 11. The Defendants are prejudiced by the Plaintiffs' failure to answer their legitimate discovery requests since it is impossible to prepare a defense without this information. WHEREFORE, the Defendants, Howard C. Beane, M.D. and Beane & Kost, P.C., t/d/b/a Beane & Associates, respectfully request that this Court order the Plaintiffs to serve full and complete answers to Defendants' Interrogatories - Set 1 and 2 and Request -2- '[;: Q ?= ." er; ~;':: .. o-~.~ ~~''''J (>" ,",~, "I"r f' ,.,. '-J.~ I, - . . ~ r):'i' )!:' lJ.. " 'i [;" m ' J;~l fl'" ('>/ 'I,) j' l.'....IJ f;j 'i ~,: ,., IltLJ Vl "}<J,; ~j m Z1 0' .,