Professional Negligence Law Reporter

Edgardo Lopez, who suffered from diabetes, received treatment from internist Peter Yoon of the DuPage Medical Group. Yoon allegedly ordered testing, including an EKG to evaluate Lopez’s complaint of heart palpitations. The test showed no abnormalities, and Yoon allegedly did not order additional cardiac testing, except for a portable monitor to record the electrical activity of Lopez’s heart. Lopez wore the monitor for 30 days, but it did not show abnormalities. He continued to see Yoon for management of his diabetes.

Seven months after his initial appointment with Yoon, Lopez experienced an abnormally high heart rate. He was admitted to a hospital, where he was diagnosed as being in heart failure. An emergency procedure revealed severe coronary artery disease, which led to a heart transplant. Lopez, 56, has a shortened life expectancy and is limited in his activities.

He and his wife sued Yoon and DuPage Medical Group, alleging Yoon had failed to diagnose his condition and recommend an urgent cardiovascular evaluation.

The jury awarded approximately $6.3 million.

Citation: Lopez v. DuPage Med. Grp., No. 2021 L 1755 (Ill. Cir. Ct. Cook Cnty. June 26, 2024).

Plaintiff counsel: AAJ members Keith A. Hebeisen and Courtney A. Berlin, both of Chicago.