Failing ventilators: Philips to pay $1.1 billion after complaints in the United States

Philips said Monday it had agreed to pay $1.1 billion to settle disputes in the United States, where it faces lawsuits after being forced to recall faulty breathing machines for people with sleep problems. The Dutch medical device maker announced in a statement that it had reached an agreement with the plaintiffs “to resolve the personal injury and medical oversight class action litigation to end the uncertainty associated with state litigation. -United" . Philips announced in 2021 the recall of these DreamStation machines against sleep apnea, a case which led to the elimination of thousands of jobs.

Users risked inhaling or swallowing pieces of toxic sound-absorbing foam that could cause irritation and headaches. The group then also mentioned a “potential” risk of long-term cancer. “The settlement addresses claims filed in U.S. courts and potential claims submitted to the Census Registry,” the group said. Under the terms of the agreement, Philips Respironics agreed to pay a total of $1.1 billion.

Payments are expected in 2025, Philips said. A provision of 982 million euros was made in the first quarter of 2024, he added. Philips announced in January a net loss of 463 million euros in 2023 and the cessation of sales of respiratory devices for sleep apnea in the United States. The group concluded an agreement in September with certain American subsidiaries to settle all claims for economic losses, but did not cover those concerning bodily injury or medical monitoring.