Novi police investigate death, multiple illnesses following dialysis treatments

Novi police are investigating the death of a 72-year-old woman and the hospitalization of five other patients following treatments at DaVita Dialysis centers. The Novi facility at 27150 Providence Parkway is currently closed as the Michigan Department of Health and Human Services and LARA conduct investigations.

Why is the Novi DaVita Dialysis Center closed?

Police closed the center as a precaution after finding a 72-year-old woman deceased in her vehicle last Friday. According to Novi police, the woman had not returned home following an appointment at the DaVita Dialysis Center at 27150 Providence Parkway. No foul play is suspected, though the cause of death remains under investigation.

The investigation expanded when police discovered that Henry Ford Providence Novi Hospital was treating four other patients who recently visited the same Novi center. One of those patients is in the intensive care unit. Police also noted that a fifth patient, treated at a DaVita Southfield location, was hospitalized.

Did You Know? Police discovered the deceased woman while responding to a report of a possible missing person.

How are patients affected by these medical emergencies?

Smiley Rammaha, a patient at the Novi facility, reported feeling lightheaded immediately after his Friday treatment. Rammaha said he initially believed the feeling would go away, but he became confused while working at his food truck. He eventually crawled to his foyer to call 911 after becoming unable to stand.

Rammaha spent several days in the hospital. He told 7 News Detroit that this emergency may move him further down the list for a kidney transplant he has awaited for 20 years. He stated, “I’m OK on the outside — not on the inside.”

Expert Insight: Samantha Carter notes that for patients like Rammaha, a sudden medical crisis doesn’t just involve immediate recovery. The stakes include long-term health milestones, as hospitalization can complicate eligibility for critical procedures like organ transplants.

What is the current status of the investigation?

The Michigan Department of Licensing and Regulatory Affairs (LARA) and the Michigan Department of Health and Human Services (MDHHS) are conducting collaborative investigations. LARA stated that local health officials are working together to “ensure the health and safety of patients at this facility.”

Novi police have not yet established a formal connection between the hospitalizations and the treatments received at DaVita Dialysis. State vehicles were observed in the center’s parking lot on Wednesday.

DaVita told 7 News Detroit they are aware of the incident but cannot comment on specifics due to patient privacy. The company stated their focus remains on delivering care to “medically vulnerable” patients with complex needs.

What may happen next?

Investigators could identify a specific contaminant or equipment failure if the MDHHS and LARA findings show a pattern of illness. A possible next step may involve the formal reopening of the Novi center once safety protocols are verified. Police may also seek additional witnesses; anyone with information is asked to call the Novi Police Department at 248-348-7100.

Frequently Asked Questions

Where is the affected dialysis center located?
The facility is located at 27150 Providence Parkway in Novi, Michigan.

Who is investigating the deaths and illnesses?
The investigation involves the Novi Police Department, the Oakland County Health Division, the Michigan Department of Health and Human Services (MDHHS), and the Michigan Department of Licensing and Regulatory Affairs (LARA).

Is foul play suspected in the woman’s death?
No, according to Novi police, foul play is not suspected.

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