Medford, Oregon – Asante Rogue Regional Medical Center in Medford, Oregon, is facing multiple investigations and a lawsuit after a series of water-based infections and deaths occurred on its premises. The hospital came under scrutiny towards the end of 2022 when a significant increase in central line-associated bloodstream infections was reported. These infections primarily affected patients in the intensive care and coronary care units, both located in an older section of the facility.
Concerns about water quality at Asante arose as a response to the spike in infections, although the hospital initially denied any current issues with their water quality. However, it was later revealed that several central line infections in critical care units at Asante were linked to waterborne bacteria from September to December 2022. The Oregon Health Authority data showed a sharp rise in central line infections at Asante in 2022 and 2023 compared to previous years, raising further questions about the hospital’s water supply.
In the spring of 2023, the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) initiated an investigation into Asante’s water supply after online testing of tap water from specific units showed a high likelihood of containing harmful bacteria. In light of these findings, Asante provided staff with guidelines on proper handling of tap water following the initial reports of infections. Subsequent investigations revealed that contaminated water may have been used in IV lines at the hospital, leading to a criminal investigation and a wrongful death lawsuit filed against Asante.
Multiple families are now working with attorneys to file charges of wrongful death against the hospital for the deaths of patients who received contaminated tap water through their IV lines. The situation has also shed light on potential substance misuse among healthcare professionals, with one nurse in particular, Dani Marie Schofield, coming under scrutiny for allegedly using tap water to replace medication in IV lines. Schofield agreed to a voluntary license suspension in November 2023, and investigations are ongoing to determine the extent of the issue.
As the legal proceedings unfold, more details are emerging about the cases of patients like Samuel Allison and Barry Samsten, who tragically lost their lives at Asante after developing infections while under treatment. The revelations have sparked concerns about drug diversion and the risks associated with substance misuse in healthcare settings. Organizations like the Joint Commission have been proactive in raising awareness about the prevalence of substance use disorders among healthcare professionals and the importance of early detection and prevention measures in such environments. The ongoing investigations at Asante serve as a sobering reminder of the critical importance of maintaining high standards of care and vigilance in healthcare facilities.