Dry Branch woman sues Glenmark, Neighborcare for family member's death

CHARLESTON -- A Dry Branch woman is suing Glenmark Associates and Neighborcare after she claims they are responsible for the death of her family member.

Ronald Lee Workman was a resident of the nursing home from April 28, 2009, until May 18, 2009, according to a complaint filed Oct. 26 in Kanawha Circuit Court.

Ruby Fitch claims that during Workman's residency at the nursing home, the defendants failed to adequately respond to his risks for falls, infection and dehydration; failed to monitor his health status; failed to notify his physician and family when his health status changed; failed to conduct appropriate assessments of his condition; and failed to secure medical attention when his health status changed, causing him to develop an infection.

On May 18, 2009, Workman was transported to Charleston Area Medical Center, then to the Hubbard Hospice House, where he died on May 21, 2009, according to the suit.

Fitch claims the defendants breached the applicable standard of care owed to Workman.

Fitch is seeking compensatory and punitive damages. She is being represented by Damon L. Ellis and Jonathan R. Mani.

The case has been assigned to Circuit Judge Charles King.

Kanawha Circuit Court case number: 10-C-1925