An Alameda County family has initiated legal proceedings against Amazon One Medical, accusing the telehealth provider of negligence following the death of 45-year-old Philip Tong. According to the lawsuit, Tong, a father of two, collapsed and died shortly after a video consultation with the telemedicine clinic.
Severe Symptoms Reported During Video Consultation
The lawsuit states that Tong, who had a history of diabetes, was experiencing significant health issues, including difficulty breathing, coughing up blood, and blue discoloration in his feet. Despite these severe symptoms, during a video consultation on December 18, 2023, Amazon’s medical service providers allegedly advised him to purchase an inhaler.
Tragic Outcome Following Emergency Room Visit
Hours after the telehealth consultation, Tong’s condition worsened, leading him to visit the emergency room at Alta Bates Summit Medical Center in Oakland. Tragically, he collapsed and died while awaiting treatment, according to the lawsuit filed in October.
Lawsuit Highlights Alleged Negligence
“To a reasonable degree of medical certainty, if Plaintiff’s Decedent, Philip Tong, would have received proper care, treatment and follow-up from defendant on December 18, 2023, he would have survived,” the lawsuit alleges. Tong’s wife and two daughters filed the suit in Alameda County Superior Court.
Hospital Named as Additional Defendant
The lawsuit also implicates Alta Bates Summit Medical Center in Tong’s death. It claims that Tong had contacted the hospital the day before his death to report his symptoms. However, he allegedly did not receive appropriate care, ultimately collapsing within the hospital’s emergency room.
This Case is First Reported by Washington Post
Amazon One Medical Responds to Allegations
In a statement, a spokesperson for Amazon One Medical refrained from discussing the specifics of Tong’s case but defended the quality of care provided. “While we are prohibited by law from discussing patient records, we refute claims that a change in the duration of visits or location of a virtual visit has impacted the care provided at Amazon One Medical,” the statement read. The company emphasized its commitment to patient safety and continuous improvement.
Details of the Incident as Alleged in the Lawsuit
The complaint, filed on October 1, alleges that Tong sought care from Amazon One Medical while suffering from a severe bacterial and viral illness. His health was further complicated by diabetes and chronic kidney disease. Despite his critical condition, the lawsuit asserts that Tong was advised to use an inhaler.
Negligence Allegations Against Amazon One Medical
The family’s attorneys claim that the telemedicine provider acted “negligently, recklessly, and carelessly” in its handling of Tong’s case, failing to provide adequate care and follow-up, which they believe resulted in his death.
Amazon’s Acquisition of One Medical Under Scrutiny
Amazon purchased One Medical in February 2023 for $3.9 billion, a move that has been closely watched by health-care industry observers. The lawsuit’s allegations may raise further questions about the integration and operational standards of the telehealth service under Amazon’s ownership.
Legal and Public Implications
This case, first reported by the Washington Post, underscores growing concerns over the safety and efficacy of telemedicine services. Tong’s family is seeking justice and accountability while shining a spotlight on the potential risks associated with virtual medical care.
Family Attorneys Remain Silent
Attorneys representing the Tong family have not yet commented publicly on the lawsuit. Meanwhile, the case continues to draw significant attention, highlighting the responsibilities and challenges faced by telehealth providers in ensuring patient safety.
