Field v. Massachusetts General Hospital

In 1978, the plaintiff began an action in Superior Court against the Massachusetts General Hospital (MGH) and Doctors Parrish and Fitzpatrick for injuries resulting from her participation as a paid volunteer in a medical research experiment designed to find a cure for psoriasis. She alleged four counts: negligence, misrepresentation, assault and battery, and breach of warranty. Pursuant to G. L. c. 231, § 60B, the Superior Court convened a medical malpractice tribunal which directed dismissal of all counts against the doctors, and of two counts against MGH, unless the plaintiff posted bond.…