Cardiology AdvisorPCP and Cardiologist Sued After Patient Death

Primary care physician and cardiologist both failed to review echocardiogram images showing severe aortic stenosis, despite interpreting physician’s warning that “stenosis appeared more severe than measurements suggested.” Patient died 16 months later; jury awarded $3 million, finding cardiologist 40% liable ($1.2 million) after PCP settled pre-trial.

⚖️ PROFESSIONAL IMPACT

• Jury rejected “blame the other doctor” defense strategy—calling settled PCP to testify and shifting fault failed, resulting in $1.2 million judgment against cardiologist alone
• Interpreting physician’s caveat created heightened duty to personally review images—”looks more severe than measurements” comment made failure to examine films indefensible to expert and jury
• PCP settlement didn’t reduce cardiologist’s exposure—comparative fault finding (60%/40%) became moot when co-defendant no longer in case, leaving cardiologist with full judgment responsibility
• Stress test showing reduced function without reviewing original echo constituted separate breach—ordering new test doesn’t cure failure to examine existing diagnostic images with documented concerns

🎯 ACTION ITEMS

• Document personal review of all ordered imaging studies in chart, especially when preliminary reports flag discrepancies or concerning findings
• Establish policy requiring direct image review when interpreting physicians note measurement-versus-appearance conflicts in echocardiograms
• Train staff that consultant referrals don’t transfer liability for reviewing diagnostic tests you ordered—responsibility remains with ordering physician
• Review coverage for comparative fault scenarios where co-defendant settlements leave you exposed to full judgment despite shared liability findings

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