Health stories in Hampton Roads

A judge has allowed consumer protection claims to be added to a civil lawsuit involving over 1,000 former patients of convicted OB-GYN Javaid Perwaiz. The lawsuit accuses Chesapeake Regional Medical Center of involvement in unnecessary surgeries and fraudulent billing.

The Trump administration has acted to ease access to unproven peptide drugs favored by Health Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr.

Gus Perton, who overcame significant medical challenges since infancy, is now set to represent Team USA at the World Down Syndrome Swimming Championships.

Four medical groups unveiled a lifelong heart health roadmap for women, from first period through menopause, built around key hormonal changes.

The family of a Seattle woman has filed a lawsuit against OpenAI after she died from a seizure, allegedly due to faulty medical advice from ChatGPT. The woman had been tapering off her medication when the incident occurred.

A recent survey indicates that over 50% of U.S. grocery shoppers are opting for less processed foods, yet many find healthy options too expensive. Consumers are calling for clearer labeling and more affordable healthy choices from food companies.

A salmonella outbreak has been traced to raw oysters from the Little Wicomico Oyster Company in Virginia, prompting a recall. The CDC reports 27 cases of illness, urging consumers to avoid affected oysters harvested between September 18 and October 8, 2026.

A hearing is set for Wednesday in the ongoing lawsuit involving Chesapeake Regional Medical Center and over 1,000 women. The case is linked to the actions of disgraced OBGYN Javaid Perwaiz, who performed surgeries and obstetric procedures at the facility from 2019 to 2020.

Nurses at Kaiser Permanente are voicing concerns that workplace surveillance and AI technology are compromising patient care. As contract negotiations begin, the California Nurses Association is advocating for better working conditions amidst growing scrutiny of AI's role in healthcare.

A male supplement has been recalled after it was discovered to contain three undeclared drugs, including components of two prescription erectile dysfunction medications. This raises concerns about consumer safety and regulatory compliance in the supplement industry.

Patients may face higher out-of-pocket costs as the Sentara-Anthem dispute could lead to affected plans becoming out of network. This uncertainty comes at a critical time during the annual open enrollment period.

Dr. Jennifer Shuford, the second-in-command at the CDC, is resigning after just six months to focus on family. Her departure highlights ongoing leadership changes at the agency amid efforts to restore public trust.

Measles cases across the U.S. have more than doubled last year's total, Florida battles a rare dengue outbreak and experts explain why Halloween scares feel real.

Over 250 hospitals have signed a pledge to improve patient nutrition by reducing unhealthy food options. HHS Secretary RFK Jr. is urging more hospitals to participate in this initiative to promote healthier eating habits.

A new report reveals that adults without vision coverage are twice as likely to skip eye exams due to cost. The findings highlight the importance of affordable vision care for both consumers and employers.

Healthcare costs are rising for both employers and employees, with family coverage premiums increasing by 5% this year. As affordability concerns grow, many employers are passing on costs to workers, leading to a 9% rise in their contributions.

Medicare open enrollment season is underway from October 15 to December 7, allowing beneficiaries to adjust their coverage. Experts emphasize the importance of reviewing options to ensure adequate healthcare support.

A civil lawsuit involving more than 1,000 women against a former OB-GYN continues as patients share their ongoing struggles. The case highlights the fight for justice and accountability in the medical field.

Virginia Beach's new ambulance billing program has generated over $13 million in its first year, allowing the city to purchase new ambulances and hire additional staff. The program, which bills health insurance for ambulance services, ensures that city residents face no out-of-pocket costs for transports.

Virginia Beach has experienced concerning spikes in opioid overdoses, with multiple deaths occurring within 24 hours. This trend stands out against a backdrop of declining overdose deaths in the post-pandemic period.

In a recent episode of the Healthy Dude podcast, breast cancer survivor Kristen Simcox discusses her unexpected diagnosis at age 37. Joined by oncologist Clayres Johnson, they address common misconceptions about breast cancer and emphasize the importance of awareness and self-exams.

Recent health news highlights a surgery that may reduce ovarian cancer risk and the benefits of aligning workouts with menstrual cycles. Additionally, simple mood boosters are suggested for coping with shorter days.

Vitamin Cottage Natural Food Markets, Inc. has issued a recall for its Natural Grocers Brand Organic 2-Pound Mung Beans after reports of glass fragments. The affected product may have been distributed across 22 states, prompting consumers to stop using it immediately.

A nurse was killed and a health worker injured in an attack while responding to an Ebola alert in eastern Congo, highlighting the dangers faced by health workers amid the ongoing outbreak. The incident underscores the challenges of combating misinformation and distrust in affected communities.

Approximately 3,300 convertible high chairs have been recalled for failing to meet safety standards, which poses a risk of falls and entrapment. Consumers are urged to check their products and take necessary precautions.

The Virginia-based health system joins more than 150 hospitals nationwide using Regard technology as state lawmakers consider how to regulate AI’s growing presence in healthcare.

Health Ouma HealthOctober 26, 2026 Circle Surrogacy is the first agency on the invitation-only portal, where agencies follow every candidate from referral to clearance, download reports the moment Ouma releases them and send requests without email. Ouma will show Connect at ASRM 2026 in Baltimore,

Wrestling legend Ric Flair has shared a health update regarding his ongoing treatment for a blood clot in his leg, following a recent fall. Fans are concerned about his well-being as he navigates these health challenges.

As more consumers consider full-body MRI scans for early disease detection, experts caution against their use without high cancer risk. Many medical associations do not recommend these tests, highlighting potential financial and health risks.