The Quarterly Dose – February 2026

SIDEBAR: News and Happenings

NEWS

Congratulations are in order for our Department’s newly elected shareholders! Each of them has demonstrated exceptional skill, dedication, and leadership in advancing the interests of our clients and strengthening our firm.

We continue to grow our health care team. Please join us in welcoming the following associates:

 

HAPPENINGS

Robert Aldrich and Melissa Dziak, shareholders in our Scranton office, presented a webinar hosted by the Pennsylvania Association for Health Care Risk Management. In “Navigating The Digital Shift: Balancing The Benefits And Legal Risks of Patient Portals,” Rob and Missy discussed mitigation strategies for managing risks associated with the use of patient portals and how the reliance on them impacts medical malpractice laws.

Rob and Missy are also featured speakers at the upcoming Crittenden Medical Liability Conference in Savannah, Georgia, in April. Their presentation, “Patient Portals: The Benefits and Legal Risks,” will examine common exposure areas related to patient portals, including messaging, response times, documentation and data security. Learn more here.

As President of the Pennsylvania Association for Health Care Risk Management, Matthew Keris will sit down with RaDonda Vaught at the PAHCRM 2026 Annual Meeting in April. A medication error by Mrs. Vaught ended the life of a patient in 2017, making her the subject of one of the highest-profile healthcare criminal cases in recent years. Matt will hold a discussion with her on the implications of the legal actions that followed and how she became a passionate advocate for safety and improvement. Find out more here.

Megan Nelson, an associate in our Orlando office, contributed commentary to an article featured in Healthcare Risk Management magazine on best practices and common pitfalls in clinical documentation. Read the article here.

Robert Evers, shareholder in our Roseland office, presented to surgical fellows and senior residents at Rutgers Health on best practices to mitigate medical malpractice risks. He also delivered a similar presentation to oral surgeons at Warren Oral Surgery Group.

 

Wishing a Warm Farewell to Our Retirees

Jeff Bates retired on December 31, 2025. Jeff was a shareholder in our Philadelphia office and his “open door” will be greatly missed. Throughout his career, Jeff tried cases, defended professionals in disciplinary board matters and always served as a tremendous mentor.

Brad Blystone also retired at the end of December. He led the Health Care group in Orlando and served as the office’s Managing Attorney. Brad’s career was defined by integrity, wisdom and unwavering advocacy. He had the reputation not only as a skilled attorney, but also as a trusted counselor and mentor.

We extend our heartfelt appreciation and sincere gratitude as Jeff and Brad conclude their service and begin a well-earned retirement!