Researchers found 10 of the 13 residents testing positive without symptoms began to show signs of the virus within seven days of the test. In Tucson, one nursing home has reported over 80 residents and staff who have tested positive for the virus. Maricopa County alone is reporting more than 400 cases among residents. Over half the total virus death toll in Pima County has been attributed to long-term care residents.
And a recent Good Samaritan executive order from Gov. Doug Ducey may make it more difficult for families to sue facilities for coronavirus-related care. The order sets the bar higher for civil suits citing negligence in facilities by specifying “gross negligence or reckless or willful misconduct.”
In order to file suit, families would have to prove administrators or employees knowingly and voluntarily disregarded reasonable care standards, according to experts. The order makes it harder for families to receive settlements from damages caused by the virus.
Goldberg & Osborne Attorney John Osborne told The Arizona Republic, “It’s a horrible shame that in the name of protecting healthcare workers the rights of the rest of the citizens of the state should be attacked in this cold and callous manner.”
He adds,
This isn’t going to help anybody except the profits of the nursing home.
For the full study, visit the New England Journal of Medicine’s site.
Find the CDC study here.
Also, view The Arizona Republic’s piece for more on Ducey’s executive order.
Check out Skilled Nursing News’ article and take a look at The Arizona Daily Star for more.
Plus, 12 News and ABC 15 providing some insight on the Arizona nursing facility story.
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