Philips makes a deal on respirator recall

Amsterdam — Philips said on Thursday it has reached a settlement to resolve one category of legal claims against it after a major recall of the Dutch medical equipment maker’s sleep apnoea and respiratory devices.    

The company said it has struck a deal to settle US “economic damages” claims. Philips will make an initial payment of $479m to a fund to cover payments claimants covered by the settlement, which will vary depending on the type of device they had.

The company had taken a €575m provision in the first quarter of 2023 against estimated costs for economic claims.

“The final costs may vary based on how many patients participate but at the end of the day we believe the €570m will cover the costs of the final settlement,” spokesperson Steve Klink said.

Philips recalled millions of breathing devices and ventilators used to treat sleep apnoea in 2021 because foam used to dampen noise from the devices can degrade and become toxic, carrying potential cancer risks.

The company still faces other legal actions over the recall, including personal injury claims, as well as an investigation by the US department of justice. It is in talks with the US Food and Drugs Administration over a “consent decree” or settlement.

Reuters