Woman sues Heritage Center, Genesis Healthcare for husband's death

HUNTINGTON -- A woman is suing Heritage Center and Genesis Healthcare Corporation for the wrongful death of her husband.

Jack R. Phillips was admitted to Heritage Center on Jan. 6, 2009, according to a complaint filed Dec. 28 in Cabell Circuit Court.

Demeley W. Greene Phillips claims during her husband's stay he suffered serious injuries from a pattern of poor care, neglect and abuse until his death on Jan. 17.

Mrs. Phillips claims Heritage Center's staff failed to appropriately and correctly monitor Mr. Phillips for changes in his condition and to document their assessments.

She also claims the defendant failed to keep her and other family members fully informed of his total health status and of his medical condition during his residency.

Mrs. Phillips is seeking compensatory and punitive damages for negligence and wrongful death. Andrew L. Paternostro and Jeff D. Stewart of the Bell Law Firm are representing her.

The case has been assigned to Circuit Judge F. Jane Hustead.

Cabell Circuit Court case number: 09-C-1013