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Helling V. Carey (1974)

Definition

Washington Supreme Court case in which ophthalmologist Thomas Carey was held negligent for not performing tonometry on a patient under 40, despite following professional consensus, because the precaution was so inexpensive and the potential harm so severe. The decision was legislatively reversed in Washington by the Medical Malpractice Reform Act 1975 but retains theoretical significance.

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Explained in

  • Medical Negligence and the Duty of CareWashington Supreme Court case in which ophthalmologist Thomas Carey was held negligent for not performing tonometry on a patient under 40, despite following pr...

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