Family of man disfigured by metro Atlanta dermatologist awarded $56.8 million
WSB-TV••health
Key Points:
- A Fulton County jury awarded over $50 million to the estate of Vietnam veteran Tony Waldrop after finding that a doctor disfigured him through negligent medical treatment.
- Waldrop, who was being treated for skin cancer at the VA, sought quicker care and was referred to Dr. Payne, who misdiagnosed a recurring tumor as a cyst and discarded tissue without biopsy.
- The cancer returned aggressively, invading deep into Waldrop's face, causing disfigurement and suffering over eight years before his death.
- The jury concluded Dr. Payne was negligent, leading to a $56.8 million award to Waldrop's estate, highlighting the importance of medical humility and diligence.
