Alton physician named in med mal case

An Alton Memorial Hospital emergency room physician was named in a medical malpractice case filed in Madison County Circuit Court May 26.

Mary Mitchell claims Patrick Masching, M.D. failed to timely diagnose and treat her underlying condition.

She went to the emergency room complaining of chest pressure and tingling/numbness in both arms.

Mitchell claims Masching discharged her from the emergency room on Oct. 18, 2005, when he knew or should have known that her condition and history of a previous myocardial infarction warranted hospitalization.

According to the complaint, Mitchell suffered a myocardial infarction on Oct. 24, 2005, which caused severe and permanent injuries.

Mitchell claims her injuries caused pain and suffering and the need to undergo treatments. She also claims she has been prevented from attending to her usual duties and affairs, lost the value of time, became liable for medical expenses and was caused her to suffer anguish and permanent disfigurement.

Represented by John Hopkins of Edwardsville, Mitchell is seeking damages in excess of $50,000, plus costs of the suit. The case has been assigned to Circuit Judge Nicholas Byron.

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