Chesapeake Regional Faces Scrutiny: Unnecessary Surgeries and Leadership Accountability

In the complex world of healthcare, patients place immense trust in medical professionals and institutions. However, recent events have shaken this trust, bringing to light serious concerns about patient safety and ethical conduct at Chesapeake Regional Medical Center. With over 500 women suing the hospital, current CEO James Jackson, and former CEOs Peter Bastone and Wynn Dixon, the central issue revolves around allegations of unnecessary surgeries performed by a former doctor, Javaid Perwaiz, and whether the hospital’s leadership was aware and accountable. This situation underscores the critical importance of oversight and accountability in healthcare, reminding us that patient well-being must always be the top priority.

The Allegations: A Breach of Trust

The lawsuit against Chesapeake Regional Medical Center officials is rooted in the actions of Dr. Javaid Perwaiz, who is currently serving a 59-year prison sentence for healthcare fraud. The legal claims assert that Perwaiz performed unnecessary surgeries, including hysterectomies and sterilizations, on numerous women between 2010 and 2019. Disturbingly, some women allege that they were not even informed about the nature of the procedures they underwent.

One plaintiff, Dracena Holloway, recounts receiving multiple unnecessary surgeries from Perwaiz, including an unneeded C-section during the birth of her twins, a “tumor removal” for cancer she didn’t have, and a tubal ligation at the age of 27 without her consent. These procedures have allegedly left her with chronic pain and irreversible damage, severely impacting her quality of life.

The lawsuit alleges that the hospital’s leadership, including current and former CEOs, were negligent in allowing Perwaiz to continue performing these harmful surgeries for years, despite repeated concerns raised by hospital staff. The plaintiffs are each seeking $10 million in damages, citing the physical, emotional, and financial toll these unnecessary procedures have taken on their lives.

Leadership Under the Microscope

A central question in this case is the extent to which Chesapeake Regional Medical Center’s leadership was aware of Dr. Perwaiz’s actions and whether they took appropriate measures to protect patients. The lawsuit claims that the hospital’s credentialing and privileging processes allowed Perwaiz to continue practicing despite “repeated reports and clear evidence of Perwaiz’s prior misconduct.”

Federal prosecutors have also weighed in, alleging that the hospital knowingly allowed Dr. Perwaiz to continue operating and collected approximately $18.5 million in reimbursements from government and commercial insurers for procedures he performed between 2010 and 2019. In January 2025, a federal grand jury indicted the hospital on charges of healthcare fraud and conspiracy to defraud the U.S.

In response to the lawsuit, Chesapeake Regional Healthcare has stated that Dr. Perwaiz’s actions “occurred without the knowledge of the organization.” However, this claim is contradicted by allegations that hospital staff raised concerns about Perwaiz’s practices, suggesting a potential failure in the hospital’s internal reporting and oversight mechanisms.

The Importance of Patient Safety and Advocacy

This case highlights the critical importance of patient safety and the need for robust systems to prevent medical malpractice. Hospitals have a responsibility to ensure that their physicians are providing appropriate and necessary care, and that patient concerns are taken seriously.

Patients also have a vital role to play in protecting their own health and well-being. It is essential to:

Ask questions: Don’t hesitate to ask your doctor about the reasons for a recommended procedure, the potential risks and benefits, and alternative treatment options.
Seek a second opinion: If you have any doubts or concerns about your doctor’s recommendations, get a second opinion from another qualified medical professional.
Do your research: Learn about your condition and the proposed treatment plan. Understanding your options can help you make informed decisions about your care.
Speak up: If you experience any unexpected changes in your condition or have concerns about the care you are receiving, report them to your healthcare provider and the hospital’s patient experience team.

Legal Recourse for Victims of Unnecessary Surgeries

Victims of unnecessary surgeries may have legal recourse to seek compensation for their injuries and damages. A personal injury attorney specializing in medical malpractice can help you understand your rights and options.

Damages in a medical malpractice case may include:

Medical expenses: Compensation for past and future medical bills related to the unnecessary surgery and any resulting complications.
Lost wages: Reimbursement for lost income due to the inability to work.
Pain and suffering: Compensation for physical pain, emotional distress, and diminished quality of life.
Punitive damages: In some cases, punitive damages may be awarded to punish the healthcare provider for egregious misconduct.

Moving Forward: A Call for Accountability and Reform

The Chesapeake Regional Medical Center case serves as a stark reminder of the potential consequences of unchecked power and inadequate oversight in healthcare. As the legal proceedings unfold, it is crucial that the hospital is held accountable for any negligence or wrongdoing that may have occurred.

More broadly, this case should prompt a reevaluation of healthcare practices and policies to ensure that patient safety is prioritized above financial gain. Strengthening oversight mechanisms, promoting transparency, and empowering patients to advocate for their own health are essential steps in preventing similar tragedies from happening in the future.

If you or a loved one has been a victim of unnecessary surgery or medical malpractice, it is important to seek legal counsel and explore your options for seeking justice and compensation. Contact a qualified personal injury attorney today to discuss your case.