An Oneida County Supreme Court jury has awarded Rome, New York resident Cynthia Stoffle $3 million in one of the largest medical malpractice verdicts in county history. The October 10 verdict found physician assistant George Gebrael committed medical negligence, with Oneida Health Care held vicariously liable for the diagnostic error that led to severe complications and permanent injuries.

Misdiagnosis Leads to Devastating Medical Complications

The 49-year-old plaintiff’s medical malpractice claim centered on Gebrael’s failure to correctly diagnose a perirectal abscess during her July 17, 2019 emergency room visit. Instead of identifying the serious infection requiring immediate treatment, Gebrael incorrectly diagnosed sciatica—a nerve condition with vastly different treatment protocols.

This diagnostic error created a critical delay in appropriate medical care that allowed the infection to worsen substantially, resulting in far more extensive and painful treatment than would have been necessary with prompt, accurate diagnosis.

Extensive Surgical Treatment and Permanent Damage

Stoffle’s attorneys demonstrated that the misdiagnosis and resulting treatment delay led to eight painful surgical procedures over a two-year period. The prolonged and intensive medical intervention caused permanent injuries that will require ongoing medical management throughout her lifetime.

Jury Award Breakdown and Compensation

The jury awarded $1 million for past pain and suffering covering the period from the misdiagnosis through trial, and $2 million for future pain and suffering reflecting the permanent nature of her injuries and ongoing medical needs. This substantial compensation recognizes both the severe physical trauma Stoffle endured and the long-term impact on her quality of life.

Vicarious Liability and Healthcare System Responsibility

The verdict holds both Gebrael and Oneida Health Care financially responsible for the malpractice. Vicarious liability doctrine makes healthcare facilities legally accountable for negligent care provided by their employees and contracted medical providers, ensuring institutional responsibility for patient safety.

Financial Security and Future Medical Care

Attorney Michael Porter stated the $3 million award will provide his client with financial stability and access to necessary future medical care required due to her permanent injuries. This compensation helps ensure Stoffle can afford ongoing treatment and manage the long-term medical consequences of the initial diagnostic failure.