Lancaster County Doctor Files Workers' Compensation Lawsuit

According to LancasterOnline.com - Dr. G. Gary Kirchner testified recently in a Lancaster County court before a judge about how he contracted a serious infection last year.  As the County's coroner, Dr. Kirchner claims that he contracted a staph infection while observing an autopsy in December of 2007.  His staph infection is reported to have methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA) features.

The doctor claims that he cut his pinkie finger on a sharp corner of a stainless steel operating table during the autopsy at the county morgue.  He said that his illness can be contracted from cadavers in this manner.  Kirchner has been hospitalized since December 29, 2007 and is requesting that Lancaster County compensate him for his medical expenses.  In his lawsuit, he claims that his medical bills have cost over $500,000.

The County is contesting the lawsuit.  It is arguing that an elected public official is not eligible for workers' compensation and that Dr. Kirchner is late in filing his lawsuit.  The attorney representing the Count says that Kirchner should not have even been involved in the autopsy and that he does not believe that Dr. Kirchner sustained the cut while visiting the morgue. 

At this time, Dr. Kirchner has limited mobility and must use a wheelchair.  He claims he also suffered from hearing and vision loss due to his injury. 

If you need assistance with a workers' compensation matter, click here to locate a knowledgeable personal injury lawyer!