Family Sues Amazon One Medical After Death

The family of Philip Tong, a 45-year-old man who died shortly after a video consultation with Amazon One Medical, is suing the telehealth provider for negligence and wrongful death. During the December 18, 2023 consultation, Tong reported severe symptoms, including shortness of breath and coughing up blood, but was advised to purchase an inhaler instead of receiving emergency care. Hours later, he collapsed in an Oakland emergency room and died. The lawsuit, filed by his wife and daughters, claims that Amazon One Medical and the associated hospital failed to provide adequate care, accusing them of lacking qualified staff and proper medical oversight. This case has raised significant concerns about the effectiveness of telehealth services in urgent situations, especially after Amazon's acquisition of One Medical and subsequent layoffs. The lawsuit is set to proceed in March 2024.