COLUMBUS – The number of lawsuits against an intensive-care physician and Mount Carmel Health Systems, where Dr. William Husel worked, is up to three as allegations emerged over improper dosing of painkillers.
An attorney says an additional wrongful death lawsuit has been filed alleging Husel and Mount Carmel caused a patient’s death by improperly prescribing a lethal dose of pain medication.
Mount Carmel says Husel ordered pain medicine for at least 27 patients in dosages significantly bigger than necessary to provide comfort for them after their families asked that lifesaving measures be stopped.
The new lawsuit says a “grossly inappropriate dose” of pain medication led to the July 15 death of 44-year-old Troy Allison.
Attorney Craig Tuttle confirmed Wednesday’s filing. A law firm representing Husel is declining comment.
A lawsuit filed Tuesday against Husel, Mount Carmel Health System, a pharmacist and a nurse alleges a 64-year-old woman was killed negligently or intentionally when she was given the painkiller fentanyl and a powerful sedative ordered by Husel, who said she was brain-dead.
David Austin, of Columbus, says he was stunned to learn of allegations that his wife, Bonnie’s, death last year was caused by Husel’s order.
Mount Carmel announced this week it has fired Husel, notified authorities and removed 20 employees from patient care pending review.