Paula Nilsen v. HHS - Td, shoulder injury related to vaccine administration (SIRVA) (2016)

Paula Nilsen filed a petition for compensation under the National Vaccine Injury Compensation Program, alleging that she suffered a shoulder injury related to vaccine administration (SIRVA) caused by a tetanus diphtheria (Td) vaccine she received on March 14, 2013. The respondent, the Secretary of Health and Human Services, conceded entitlement to compensation, agreeing that the injury was caused by the Td vaccine and lasted for more than six months.

The case proceeded as a Table claim. A ruling on entitlement was issued on January 9, 2015, finding petitioner entitled to compensation.

Subsequently, on October 6, 2015, the parties filed a proffer on award of compensation. The respondent recommended an award of $128,516.11, which included a lump sum of $125,000.00 payable to Paula Nilsen and $3,516.11 payable to both Paula Nilsen and Optum to satisfy a Medicaid lien.

Petitioner agreed to this award. A decision awarding damages was issued on November 16, 2015, reflecting this agreed-upon amount.

Later, on March 15, 2016, a decision was issued acknowledging a repayment of $353.66 due to an overpayment of the Medicaid lien, and directing an additional judgment in favor of the respondent for this amount. The total compensation awarded to Paula Nilsen was $128,516.11.