Boca Raton Compounding Pharmacy Shuts Its Doors After Receiving an Emergency Suspension Order

By George F. Indest III, J.D., M.P.A., LL.M., Board Certified by The Florida Bar in Health Law

On October 26, 2012, the Florida Department of Health (DOH) issued an emergency suspension order (ESO) against a Boca Raton compounding pharmacy, according to a number of sources. The DOH in a press release called the conditions in the pharmacy so “deplorable” that nothing short of immediately shutting down the pharmacy would suffice.

Click here to read the press release from the DOH.

Rodent Feces, Dead Bugs and a Sink Full of Dirty Water all Found at Compounding Pharmacy.

On October 12, 2012, a state inspector arrived at the Boca Raton compounding pharmacy for an inspection. According to an article on Health News Florida, rodent feces, dead bugs and a sink full of dirty water were discovered. A film of powder covered surfaces in the drug-compounding area, where containers of drugs were open. Information on patients and prescriptions was missing, and drug labels were missing important information on the dose, lot number and prescribing physician.

Apparently the compounding pharmacy had been cited in past inspections for similar issues.

To read the Health News Florida article, click here.

All Compounding Pharmacies Are Now Under Pressure.

The compounding pharmacy can have a DOH hearing before final action is taken. The suspension is in effect until final disciplinary action, until the suspension is lifted or the case is appealed.

This inspection and ESO occurred in the wake of a nationwide outbreak of fungal meningitis linked to contaminated drugs made by a compounding pharmacy in Massachusetts. I previously wrote a blog on the Massachusetts compounding pharmacy shutting down. To read more click here.

It’s believed because of the meningitis outbreak, all compounding pharmacies are under the microscope.

Another Florida Compounding Pharmacy in Trouble Due to Fungal Growth.

I previously blogged about the problems encountered by Franck’s pharmacy in Ocala, Florida. It has been accused of distributing eye medications that contained a fungal infection. Click here for the first blog and here for the second blog I wrote on this.

Contact Health Law Attorneys Experienced in Representing Pharmacies and Pharmacists.

The Health Law Firm represents pharmacists and pharmacies in investigations, regulatory matters, licensing issues, litigation, inspections and audits. The firm’s attorneys include those who are board certified by The Florida Bar in Health Law as well as licensed health professionals who are also attorneys.

To contact The Health Law Firm please call (407) 331-6620 or (850) 439-1001 and visit our website at www.TheHealthLawFirm.com.

Comments?

Do you think the Boca Raton compounding pharmacy was unfairly served with an ESO due to the meningitis outbreak? Or do you think it is better for the Florida DOH to be safe rather than sorry? Please leave any thoughtful comments below.

Sources:

Gentry, Carol. “State Finds Pharmacy Conditions ‘Deplorable,’ Suspends License.” Health News Florida. (October 26, 2012). From: http://wusfnews.wusf.usf.edu/post/state-finds-pharmacy-conditions-deplorable-suspends-license

Florida Department of Health. “Department of Health Takes Action Against Florida Pharmacy.” DOH. (October 26, 2012). Press Release From: http://newsroom.doh.state.fl.us/wp-content/uploads/newsroom/2011/08/102612RejuviESO.pdf

About the Author: George F. Indest III, J.D., M.P.A., LL.M., is Board Certified by The Florida Bar in Health Law.  He is the President and Managing Partner of The Health Law Firm, which has a national practice.  Its main office is in the Orlando, Florida, area.  www.TheHealthLawFirm.com  The Health Law Firm, 1101 Douglas Ave., Altamonte Springs, FL 32714, Phone:  (407) 331-6620.

“The Health Law Firm” is a registered fictitious business name of George F. Indest III, P.A. – The Health Law Firm, a Florida professional service corporation, since 1999.

Copyright © 1996-2012 The Health Law Firm. All rights reserved.

By |2024-03-14T10:00:39-04:00June 1, 2018|Categories: Department of Health, In the Know, Pharmaceutical Drugs, Pharmacy, The Health Law Firm Blog|Tags: , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , |Comments Off on Boca Raton Compounding Pharmacy Shuts Its Doors After Receiving an Emergency Suspension Order
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Meningitis Cases in Florida Continue to Rise – Doctors Getting Sued

10 Indest-2008-7By George F. Indest III, J.D., M.P.A., LL.M., Board Certified by The Florida Bar in Health Law

The Florida Department of Health (DOH) confirmed another case of fungal meningitis in Florida on November 19, 2012. A 56-year-old man allegedly received a contaminated steroid injection at Florida Pain Clinic in Marion County, Florida. This brings the state’s total number of fungal meningitis cases up to 24, including three deaths.

To read the entire press release from the Florida DOH, click here.

Meningitis Numbers Around the U.S. 

As of November 19, 2012, the Florida DOH reported the number of fungal meningitis cases nationwide is up to 480 with 33 deaths in 19 states.

The meningitis outbreak is reportedly linked to contaminated steroids made at the New England Compounding Center (NECC) in Framingham, Massachusetts, which is now closed. The compounding pharmacy was allegedly not following the requirements of its state license, according to the Massachusetts DOH. Under Massachusetts state law the NECC was only supposed to produce medications for patient-specific prescriptions, but it is believed the compounding pharmacy was preparing drugs in bulk. I previously wrote a blog on the reports related to the compounding pharmacy violating its license. Click here to read that blog.

Victims Sue Physicians.

Victims of the meningitis outbreak are starting to file lawsuits against the physicians and clinics that administered the tainted steroids. In a Business Insurance article released on October 28, 2012, I was quoted as saying liability might be established to the extent that the physicians were aware that the steroids distributed by the NECC violated regulations on compounding prescription medications. To read the entire article from Business Insurance, click here.

Florida and Fungal Outbreaks.

 Florida has seen its share of fungal outbreaks. I previously blogged about the problems encountered by Franck’s pharmacy in Ocala, Florida. It was accused of distributing eye medications that contained a fungal infection. Click here for the first blog and here for the second blog.

Contact Health Law Attorneys Experienced in Representing Pharmacies and Pharmacists.

The Health Law Firm represents pharmacists and pharmacies in investigations, regulatory matters, licensing issues, litigation, inspections and audits. The firm’s attorneys include those who are board certified by The Florida Bar in Health Law as well as licensed health professionals who are also attorneys.

To contact The Health Law Firm please call (407) 331-6620 or (850) 439-1001 and visit our website at www.TheHealthLawFirm.com.Jameson. Marni. “Florida Health Officials Confirm State’s 24th Case of Fungal Meningitis.” Orlando Sentinel. (November 19, 2012). From: ttp://www.orlandosentinel.com/news/local/breakingnews/os-florida-fungal-meningitis-20121119,0,3451600.story

Comments?

What do you think of the lawsuits again the physicians and clinics that administered the tainted steroid shots? Please leave any thoughtful comments below.

Sources:

Hiers, Fred. “Man Who Received Injection Locally Confirmed to Have Fungal Meningitis.” Ocala Star Banner. (November 19, 2012). From: http://www.ocala.com/article/20121119/ARTICLES/121119679/1412?Title=Man-who-received-injection-locally-confirmed-to-have-fungal-meningitis

Greenwald, Judy. “Meningitis Lawsuits Target Physicians.” Business Insurance. (October 28, 2012), From: http://www.businessinsurance.com/article/20121028/NEWS07/310289984?tags=|75|303

Hammonds, Jessica. “Florida Department of Health Uncovers Case of Fungal Meningitis.” Florida Department of Healht. (November 19, 2012). From: ttp://newsroom.doh.state.fl.us/wp-content/uploads/newsroom/2012/11/111912MeningitisUpdateonecase.pdf

About the Author: George F. Indest III, J.D., M.P.A., LL.M., is Board Certified by The Florida Bar in Health Law.  He is the President and Managing Partner of The Health Law Firm, which has a national practice.  Its main office is in the Orlando, Florida, area.  www.TheHealthLawFirm.com  The Health Law Firm, 1101 Douglas Ave., Altamonte Springs, FL 32714, Phone:  (407) 331-6620.

“The Health Law Firm” is a registered fictitious business name of George F. Indest III, P.A. – The Health Law Firm, a Florida professional service corporation, since 1999.

Copyright © 1996-2012 The Health Law Firm. All rights reserved.

By |2024-03-14T10:00:40-04:00June 1, 2018|Categories: DEA, In the Know, Pharmacy, The Health Law Firm Blog|Tags: , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , |Comments Off on Meningitis Cases in Florida Continue to Rise – Doctors Getting Sued
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Florida Pharmacy Allegedly the Cause of Eye Infection Outbreak

The Centers for Disease Control (CDC) has allegedly traced a rare fungal infection to an Ocala pharmacy, according to media reports. As reported, Franck’s Compounding Lab is believed to be at least partially responsible for spreading a rare fungal eye infection to over 30 patients across the U.S.

The CDC reports that eye drops and injections traced back to the lab caused the infections. These ophthalmic products contained multiple fungal and bacterial species, according to the CDC. The products have now been recalled, but were in use for over a year before the recall. The CDC has also issued a warning to avoid any product labeled sterile from Franck’s.

The patients impacted by the contaminated products had all undergone some type of eye procedure in which the Franck’s products were used. 23 patients have allegedly suffered some vision loss as a result of the infection.

The Florida Department of Health (DOH) has stated that it cannot divulge if Franck’s or any other pharmacy is being investigated at this time. If the pharmacy is believed to pose an immediate threat to patient safety, the DOH could issue an emergency suspension order (ESO) to immediately suspend the pharmacy’s license.

Franck’s has released a statement saying that the pharmacy is fully cooperating with the DOH and FDA. Franck’s says it is currently cooperating to conduct product recalls and will assist in post-recall inspections to prevent future occurrences.

This is not the first time that this Central Florida pharmacy has made headlines. In 2009, the pharmacy was blamed for the deaths of over twenty polo horses in south Florida. This was also allegedly caused by a contaminated compound. Because of this case, the FDA tried to stop Franck’s from compounding veterinary products.

However, Franck’s won in U.S. District Court when United States v. Franck’s Lab, Inc. was decided in December 2011. In this case, the federal court ruled that the FDA does not have the authority to regulate the practice of pharmacists compounding veterinary prescriptions from bulk substances. The decision in favor of the pharmacy can be found here.

The Health Law Firm represents pharmacists and pharmacies in investigations, regulatory matters, licensing issues, litigation, inspections and audits. It’s attorneys include those who are board certified by The Florida Bar in Health Law as well as licensed health professionals who are also attorneys.

To contact The Health Law Firm please call (407) 331-6620 or (850) 439-1001 and visit our website at www.TheHealthLawFirm.com.

Sources Include:

Associated Press. “CDC Links Eye Infections to Troubled Florida Pharmacy.” Fox News.com. (May 04, 2012). From
http://www.foxnews.com/health/2012/05/04/cdc-links-eye-infections-to-troubled-florida-pharmacy/#ixzz1tvHCA4yg

CBS News Staff. “Rare Fungal Eye Infections Tied to Fla. Pharmacy, CDC Warns.” CBS News. (May 04, 2012). From:
http://www.cbsnews.com/8301-504763_162-57427915-10391704/rare-fungal-eye-infections-tied-to-fla-pharmacy-cdc-warns/

Medina, Carlos E. “Eye Infections Linked to Ocala’s Franck’s Compounding Lab.” The Gainesville Sun. (May 03, 2012) From
http://www.gainesville.com/article/20120503/ARTICLES/120509811?tc=ar

United States v. Franck’s Lab, Inc., No. 5:10-cv-147-Oc-32TBS (M.D. Fla., Sept. 12, 2011).

WFTV. “Ocala Pharmacy Blamed for Dozens of People Suffering Vision Loss.” WFTV.com. (May 04, 2012). From
http://www.wftv.com/news/news/local/ocala-pharmacy-blamed-dozens-people-suffering-visi/nNWCR/

By |2024-03-14T10:00:30-04:00June 1, 2018|Categories: Department of Health, Health Care Industry, In the News, Pharmacy, The Health Law Firm Blog|Tags: , , , , , , , , , , , , |Comments Off on Florida Pharmacy Allegedly the Cause of Eye Infection Outbreak
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Franck’s Pharmacy Recalls Compounding Prescriptions and Shuts Down Sterile Compounding Service

Franck’s Pharmacy, Inc. located in Ocala, Florida, has issued a recall for its compounded prescriptions. The prescriptions impacted by this recall include all sterile human and veterinary compounded prescriptions distributed by Franck’s Pharmacy from November 21, 2011 to May 21, 2012. Franck’s Pharmacy made the announcement on the company’s website on May 24, 2012. To see the recall click here.

Recall Based on FDA Findings of Fungal Growth in Pharmacy’s Clean Room.

The recall was apparently prompted by action by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA). The FDA notified Franck’s Pharmacy that environmental sampling of the pharmacy’s clean room revealed the presence of microorganisms and fungal growth. Because of the FDA’s findings, Franck’s Pharmacy decided to recall its sterile compounds to prevent any possible risk of infection to patients.

Franck’s Pharmacy Urges Physicians to Assist in Recall Efforts.

Franck’s Pharmacy is seeking the assistance of physicians in alerting patients who may be impacted by the recall. Franck’s Pharmacy is also advising physicians to review and evaluate patient records to determine if any adverse events may have resulted from use of the recalled products. Any adverse events should be reported to Franck’s Pharmacy and the FDA’s MedWatch program.

Franck’s Pharmacy Ceases Production of Sterile Compounds.

Franck’s Pharmacy also announced that it will stop producing sterile compounds at its Ocala lab facility for the present. Franck’s Pharmacy made the announcement via e-mail on May 23, 2012. The e-mail also confirmed that several employees had been laid off. Allegedly, these employees were terminated due to the sterile compounding shutdown. Franck’s Pharmacy will continue to compound non-sterile human and veterinary medicine.

Franck’s Pharmacy Recently Linked to Eye Infection Outbreak.

Franck’s Pharmacy decided to cease sterile compounding after the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) issued a warning urging physicians not to use sterile products made by Franck’s Pharmacy. The warning was issued after the CDC traced a rare fungal eye infection back to the pharmacy. The infection impacted at least 30 patients who allegedly had undergone some type of eye procedure in which Franck’s Pharmacy products were used. For additional information on this, click here.

Prior Deaths of 30 Polo Ponies.

In an earlier unfortunate incident in 2009, Franck’s Pharmacy’s compounding of veterinarian prescriptions allegedly led to the deaths of approximately 30 expensive polo ponies here in Florida. Click here for details. In the aftermath of that case, the FDA attempted to prevent Franck’s Pharmacy from any further compounding of pharmaceuticals for veterinary purposes. The FDA eventually lost the case heard by the U.S. District Court, Middle District of Florida, which ruled in favor of Franck’s Pharmacy. The decision can be seen here.

Contact Health Law Attorneys Experienced in Representing Pharmacies and Pharmacists.

The Health Law Firm represents pharmacists and pharmacies in investigations, regulatory matters, licensing issues, litigation, inspections and audits. The firm’s attorneys include those who are board certified by The Florida Bar in Health Law as well as licensed health professionals who are also attorneys.

To contact The Health Law Firm please call (407) 331-6620 or (850) 439-1001 and visit our website at www.TheHealthLawFirm.com.

Sources Include:

Franck, Paul. “Urgent: Compounding Prescriptions Recall.” Franck’s Pharmacy. Press Release. (May 23, 2012). From
http://www.francks.com/

Medina, Carlos E. “Franck’s Ceases Sterile Compounding Service.” Ocala.com. (May 23, 2012) From
http://www.ocala.com/article/20120523/ARTICLES/120529872/-1/entertainment02?template/

By |2024-03-14T10:00:31-04:00June 1, 2018|Categories: In the News, Pharmacy, The Health Law Firm Blog|Tags: , , , , , , , , , , |Comments Off on Franck’s Pharmacy Recalls Compounding Prescriptions and Shuts Down Sterile Compounding Service
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Franck’s Pharmacy Closes; Compounding Lab is Now Wells Pharmacy Network

By George F. Indest III, J.D., M.P.A., LL.M., Board Certified by The Florida Bar in Health Law

July 31, 2012, marked the end of an era for Franck’s Pharmacy in Ocala, Florida, as the retail location closed its doors for good. According to an Ocala Star-Banner article, in July 2012, Franck’s Compounding Lab, which was one of the largest compounding labs in the country, was bought by Wells Pharmacy Network. The deal included Franck’s Lifestyles, which sells supplements and wellness products, but did not include the retail pharmacy location.

Click here to see the official press release from Wells Pharmacy Network.

Closed Pharmacy Comes After a U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) Finding of Fungal Growth in Pharmacy’s Clean Room.

In May of 2012, Franck’s Pharmacy Inc., issued a recall for its compounded prescriptions. The prescriptions impacted by this recall included all sterile human and veterinary compounded prescriptions distributed by Franck’s Pharmacy from November 21, 2011 to May 21, 2012. 

The recall was apparently prompted by an action by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA). The FDA notified Franck’s Pharmacy that environmental sampling of the pharmacy’s clean room revealed the presence of microorganisms and fungal growth. Because of the FDA’s findings, Franck’s Pharmacy recalled its sterile compounds to prevent any possible risk of infection.

To see the FDA recall, click here.

Eye Infection Outbreak Linked to Franck’s Pharmacy Products.

Franck’s Pharmacy ceased sterile compounding in its Ocala lab after the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) issued a warning urging physicians not to use sterile products made by Franck’s Pharmacy. The warning was issued after the CDC traced a rare fungal eye infection back to the pharmacy. The infection impacted at least 30 patients who allegedly had undergone some type of eye procedure in which Franck’s Pharmacy products were used.

I previously blogged about this story, click here to read the entire post.

Franck’s Trouble in the Past.

According to the Ocala Star-Banner, the eye preparation case was the second time Franck’s faced claims of improper compounding. In 2009, Franck’s veterinary division allegedly improperly mixed a nutritional supplement for 21 polo horses that contained far more selenium than required. The horses all died.

Contact Health Law Attorneys Experienced in Representing Pharmacies and Pharmacists.

The Health Law Firm represents pharmacists and pharmacies in investigations, regulatory matters, licensing issues, litigation, inspections and audits. The firm’s attorneys include those who are board certified by The Florida Bar in Health Law as well as licensed health professionals who are also attorneys.

To contact The Health Law Firm please call (407) 331-6620 or (850) 439-1001 and visit our website at www.TheHealthLawFirm.com.

Sources:

Medina, Carlos. “Franck’s Pharmacy Closes its Doors.” Ocala Star-Banner. (July 31, 2012). From: http://www.ocala.com/article/20120731/ARTICLES/120739961?p=3&tc=pg

Ulbricht, Christopher. “Wells Pharmacy Network Expands to Ocala, Florida.” Franck’s. (July 5, 2012.) From:  http://www.francks.com/

About the Author: George F. Indest III, J.D., M.P.A., LL.M., is Board Certified by The Florida Bar in Health Law.  He is the President and Managing Partner of The Health Law Firm, which has a national practice.  Its main office is in the Orlando, Florida, area.  www.TheHealthLawFirm.com  The Health Law Firm, 1101 Douglas Ave., Altamonte Springs, FL 32714, Phone:  (407) 331-6620.

 
“The Health Law Firm” is a registered fictitious business name of George F. Indest III, P.A. – The Health Law Firm, a Florida professional service corporation, since 1999.

Copyright © 1996-2012 The Health Law Firm. All rights reserved.

By |2024-03-14T10:00:34-04:00June 1, 2018|Categories: In the News, Pharmacy, The Health Law Firm Blog|Tags: , , , , , , , , , , , |1 Comment
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New England Compounding Pharmacy Linked to Meningitis Outbreak Suspected of Violated License

By George F. Indest III, J.D., M.P.A., LL.M., Board Certified by The Florida Bar in Health Law

The compounding pharmacy behind the meningitis outbreak was allegedly not following the requirements of its state license, according to the Massachusetts Department of Health (DOH) in a released statement on October 10, 2012.

To read the entire statement from the Massachusetts DOH, click here.

The New England Compounding Center (NECC) shipped more than 17,000 vials of a steroid to pain clinics in 23 states, including Florida. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) is now reporting 214 cases of meningitis and 15 deaths associated with the fungal infection. NECC has surrendered its license and has recalled all medications. To see a blog I previously wrote about the recall and compounding facility shutting down, click here.

Under Law NECC Was Only Suppose to Produce Medication for Patient-Specific Prescriptions.

The Massachusetts DOH representative said under state law the NECC was only supposed to produce medications for patient-specific prescriptions. It is believed the company violated state law governing those pharmacies.

Apparently the DOH has had issues with the NECC prior to the outbreak. According to the statement, in 2006 the NECC received a warning letter from the Massachusetts DOH. The letter stated the company was operating more like a drug manufacturing firm than a compounding pharmacy.

All Compounding Pharmacies Now Under the Microscope.

On October 10, 2012, the Board of Pharmacy sent out an alert to all compounding pharmacies in Massachusetts to reinforce the state rules. The Board also issued an order requiring that all compounding pharmacies in the state sign an affidavit attesting compliance with all laws and regulations. The Massachusetts DOH officials do not believe any other pharmacies are operating outside of the rules, but said the alert was a precautionary measure.

Click here to see the alert from the Board of Pharmacy.

Compounding Pharmacy in Florida Faced Fungal Outbreak.

Florida has seen its share of fungal outbreaks. I previously blogged about the problems encountered by Franck’s pharmacy in Ocala, Florida. It has been accused of distributing eye medications that contained a fungal infection. Click here for the first blog and here for the second blog.

Contact Health Law Attorneys Experienced in Representing Pharmacies and Pharmacists.

The Health Law Firm represents pharmacists and pharmacies in investigations, regulatory matters, licensing issues, litigation, inspections and audits. The firm’s attorneys include those who are board certified by The Florida Bar in Health Law as well as licensed health professionals who are also attorneys.
To contact The Health Law Firm please call (407) 331-6620 or (850) 439-1001 and visit our website at www.TheHealthLawFirm.com.

Comments?

What do you think of this story? Please leave any thoughtful comments below.

Sources:

Smith, Michael. “Meningitis: Pharmacy in Outbreak Violated License.” MedPage Today. (October 11, 2012). From: http://www.medpagetoday.com/Neurology/GeneralNeurology/35276?utm_source=breaking-news&utm_medium=email&utm_campaign=breaking-news

Biondolillo, Madeleine Dr. “Statement of Dr. Madeleine Biondolillo Director of the Bureau for Health Care Safety and Quality.” Department of Public Health Massachusetts (October 10. 2012). From: http://www.mass.gov/eohhs/docs/dph/quality/boards/pharmacy-necc-biondolillo-statement.doc

Associated Press. “CDC: US Meningitis Outbreak Growing, 14 Dead.” Florida Today. (October 11, 2012). From: http://www.floridatoday.com/viewart/20121011/HEALTH/121011041/CDC-US-meningitis-outbreak-growing-14-dead?odyssey=tab%7Ctopnews%7Ctext%7CLocal%20News

About the Author: George F. Indest III, J.D., M.P.A., LL.M., is Board Certified by The Florida Bar in Health Law.  He is the President and Managing Partner of The Health Law Firm, which has a national practice.  Its main office is in the Orlando, Florida, area.  www.TheHealthLawFirm.com  The Health Law Firm, 1101 Douglas Ave., Altamonte Springs, FL 32714, Phone:  (407) 331-6620.

“The Health Law Firm” is a registered fictitious business name of George F. Indest III, P.A. – The Health Law Firm, a Florida professional service corporation, since 1999.
Copyright © 1996-2012 The Health Law Firm. All rights reserved.

By |2024-03-14T10:00:39-04:00June 1, 2018|Categories: DEA, In the Know, Pharmacy, The Health Law Firm Blog|Tags: , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , |Comments Off on New England Compounding Pharmacy Linked to Meningitis Outbreak Suspected of Violated License
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Negligence Will Determine the Success or Failure of the Meningitis Lawsuits Against Doctors and Clinics

6 Indest-2008-3By George F. Indest III, J.D., M.P.A., LL.M., Board Certified by The Florida Bar in Health Law

The victims and survivors of the meningitis outbreak are now filing lawsuits against the physicians and clinics that administered the tainted steroids. According to an article in The Tennessean, on January 29, 2013, a husband who lost his wife to fungal meningitis filed the first lawsuit against a Nashville outpatient clinic. It’s believed hundreds of people were injected at the same clinic with the tainted steroids. The man is now seeking $12.5 million in damages.

Click here to read the entire article from The Tennessean.

This lawsuit is just one in what is expected to be a series of lawsuits, in not just Tennessee, but across the country.

Compounding Pharmacy Allegedly Behind the Meningitis Outbreak is Out of Business.

The meningitis outbreak was at a peak in the fall of 2012. Contaminated steroid injections were allegedly made at the New England Compounding Center (NECC) in Framingham, Massachusetts. NECC is accused of shipping thousands of vials of tainted drugs across the country. There are allegedly 45 deaths nationwide from the steroids. The company shut down in October 2012, and filed for bankruptcy in December, according to an article in American Medical News.

Tennessee Complaint Alleges Outpatient Clinic Put Money Before Patients.

The man suing the Nashville outpatient clinic believes, among other things, that officials at the clinic put the company’s bottom line before patient care. The lawsuit specifically alleges:

1. The outpatient clinic ignored important information when it chose NECC to purchase thousands of vials of steroids,
2. That clinic officials failed to properly notify the victim that she had been injected with a potentially contaminated steroid,
3. That clinic officials failed to recommend the victim should receive treatment,
4. The clinic chose to purchase drugs from NECC because it was a cheaper than the safer alternatives.

Click here to read the entire complaint.

The Responsibility of Doctors and Clinics.

Negligence is the most common claim used against doctors in cases of defective medication. The assumption is that the physician breached the standard of care because he or she knew or should have known that NECC was not meeting applicable standards in compounding the medications. Another legal theory is that the physician should have known that certain medications should not have been compounded, but rather obtained directly from a manufacturer. I believe the liability of physicians and clinics might be established to the extent that the physicians were aware that the steroids distributed by NECC violated regulations on compounding prescription medications.

It’s imperative physicians and clinics are sure of the credentials of all vendors and suppliers.

I was recently quoted in an American Medical News article about physicians and clinics that are entangled in tainted drugs lawsuits. To read the entire article, click here.

Florida Compounding Pharmacy No Stranger to Fungal Outbreaks.

Florida has seen its share of fungal outbreaks. I previously blogged about the problems encountered by Franck’s pharmacy in Ocala, Florida. It was accused of distributing eye medications that contained a fungal infection. Click here for the first blog and here for the second blog.

Pharmacists Need to Obtain Good Professional Liability Insurance.

Many pharmacists, especially those who work for state agencies, large hospitals, pharmacy chains or other large institutions, scrimp on their purchase of professional liability insurance. Many mistakenly believe their employer will cover any legal defense expenses. This is not true and is often found out too late.

A pharmacist should always carry his/her own professional negligence insurance. It is inexpensive and can cover many types of legal actions other than just civil negligence cases. Always, always, always be sure your insurance includes at least $25,000 in professional license defense coverage. Get this in writing!

Contact Health Law Attorneys Experienced in Representing Pharmacies and Pharmacists.

The Health Law Firm represents pharmacists and pharmacies in investigations, regulatory matters, licensing issues, litigation, inspections and audits. The firm’s attorneys include those who are board certified by The Florida Bar in Health Law as well as licensed health professionals who are also attorneys.

To contact The Health Law Firm please call (407) 331-6620 or (850) 439-1001 and visit our website at www.TheHealthLawFirm.com.

Comments?

What do you think about the lawsuits against these doctors and clinics? Who do you think should be help responsible: the compounding pharmacy that shipped the contaminated steroids, or the doctors and clinics that administered the steroid shots? Please leave any thoughtful comments below.

Sources:

Roche Jr., Walter. “Meningitis Outbreak: Victim’s Husband Sues Saint Thomas Clinic.” The Tennessean. (January 31, 2013). From: http://www.tennessean.com/apps/pbcs.dll/article?AID=2013301300211&nclick_check=1

Wayne A. Reed v. Saint Thomas Outpatient Neurosurgical Center. Case Number 13C-417. Complaint. (January 29, 2013). From: http://www.thehealthlawfirm.com/uploads/Reed%20v.%20St.%20Thomas%20Outpatient.pdf

Gallegos, Alicia. “Physicians Entangled in Tainted Drugs Lawsuits.” American Medical News. (February 11, 2013). From: http://www.thehealthlawfirm.com/uploads/AMN_PhysicianLawsuits.PDF

About the Author: George F. Indest III, J.D., M.P.A., LL.M., is Board Certified by The Florida Bar in Health Law. He is the President and Managing Partner of The Health Law Firm, which has a national practice. Its main office is in the Orlando, Florida, area. www.TheHealthLawFirm.com The Health Law Firm, 1101 Douglas Ave., Altamonte Springs, FL 32714, Phone: (407) 331-6620

The Health Law Firm” is a registered fictitious business name of George F. Indest III, P.A. – The Health Law Firm, a Florida professional service corporation, since 1999.

Copyright © 1996-2012 The Health Law Firm. All rights reserved.

By |2024-03-14T10:01:39-04:00May 15, 2018|Categories: Insurance, Legal Defense for Pharmacists, Pharmacist, Pharmacy, Pharmacy Law|Tags: , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , |1 Comment
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Florida Department of Health (DOH) Shuts Down Boca Raton Compounding Pharmacy

By George F. Indest III, J.D., M.P.A., LL.M., Board Certified by The Florida Bar in Health Law

On October 26, 2012, the Florida Department of Health (DOH) issued an emergency suspension order (ESO) against a Boca Raton compounding pharmacy, according to a number of sources. The DOH in a press release called the conditions in the pharmacy so “deplorable” that nothing short of immediately shutting down the pharmacy would suffice.

Click here to read the press release from the DOH.

State Inspector Finds Feces, Bugs and Much More in Compounding Pharmacy.

On October 12, 2012, a state inspector arrived at the Boca Raton compounding pharmacy for an inspection. According to an article on Health News Florida, rodent feces, dead bugs and a sink full of dirty water were discovered. A film of powder covered surfaces in the drug-compounding area, where containers of drugs were open. Information on patients and prescriptions was missing, and drug labels were missing important information on the dose, lot number and prescribing physician.

Apparently the compounding pharmacy had been cited in past inspections for similar issues.

To read the Health News Florida article, click here.

Compounding Pharmacy Can Have a Hearing Before Action is Taken.

The compounding pharmacy can have a DOH hearing before final action is taken. The suspension is in effect until final disciplinary action, until the suspension is lifted or the case is appealed.

This inspection and ESO occurred in the wake of a nationwide outbreak of fungal meningitis linked to contaminated drugs made by a compounding pharmacy in Massachusetts. I previously wrote a blog on the Massachusetts compounding pharmacy shutting down. To read more click here.

It’s believed because of the meningitis outbreak, all compounding pharmacies are under the microscope.

Read About Another Florida Compounding Pharmacy Accused of Distributing Medications with Fungal Infection.

I previously blogged about the problems encountered by Franck’s pharmacy in Ocala, Florida. It has been accused of distributing eye medications that contained a fungal infection. Click here for the first blog and here for the second blog I wrote on this.

Contact Health Law Attorneys Experienced in Representing Pharmacies and Pharmacists.

The Health Law Firm represents pharmacists and pharmacies in investigations, regulatory matters, licensing issues, litigation, inspections and audits. The firm’s attorneys include those who are board certified by The Florida Bar in Health Law as well as licensed health professionals who are also attorneys.

To contact The Health Law Firm please call (407) 331-6620 or (850) 439-1001 and visit our website at www.TheHealthLawFirm.com.

Comments?

Do you think the Boca Raton compounding pharmacy was unfairly served with an ESO due to the meningitis outbreak? Or do you think it is better for the Florida DOH to be safe rather than sorry? Please leave any thoughtful comments below.

Sources:

Gentry, Carol. “State Finds Pharmacy Conditions ‘Deplorable,’ Suspends License.” Health News Florida. (October 26, 2012). From: http://wusfnews.wusf.usf.edu/post/state-finds-pharmacy-conditions-deplorable-suspends-license

Florida Department of Health. “Department of Health Takes Action Against Florida Pharmacy.” DOH. (October 26, 2012). Press Release From: http://newsroom.doh.state.fl.us/wp-content/uploads/newsroom/2011/08/102612RejuviESO.pdf

About the Author: George F. Indest III, J.D., M.P.A., LL.M., is Board Certified by The Florida Bar in Health Law.  He is the President and Managing Partner of The Health Law Firm, which has a national practice.  Its main office is in the Orlando, Florida, area.  www.TheHealthLawFirm.com  The Health Law Firm, 1101 Douglas Ave., Altamonte Springs, FL 32714, Phone:  (407) 331-6620.

“The Health Law Firm” is a registered fictitious business name of George F. Indest III, P.A. – The Health Law Firm, a Florida professional service corporation, since 1999.

Copyright © 1996-2012 The Health Law Firm. All rights reserved.

By |2024-03-14T10:01:07-04:00May 15, 2018|Categories: Compounding pharmacy, Department of Health, Florida Board of Pharmacy, Legal Defense for Pharmacists, Pharmacist, Pharmacy|Tags: , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , |Comments Off on Florida Department of Health (DOH) Shuts Down Boca Raton Compounding Pharmacy
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“The Health Law Firm” is a registered fictitious business name of George F. Indest III, P.A.
The Health Law Firm, a Florida professional service corporation, since 1999.
Copyright © 2022 The Health Law Firm. All rights reserved.
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