HCA Inc. Class Action Dismissed

A possible class action lawsuit was filed against the hospital chain for allegedly defrauding patients by directing its affiliated hospitals to staff nursing units below generally accepted levels. The lawsuit sought class action status and asked HCA to repay no less than $12.5 billion to millions of patients who have been treated at its hospitals. The chain operates 182 hospitals and 94 outpatient surgery centers in 22 states as well as in England and Switzerland. A federal judge has dismissed the class action lawsuit noting cases involving medical malpractice should be examined on an individual basis. (Jul-29-06) [WIBW NEWS]