Hospital negligence leaves patient out in the cold

A hospital has come under fire after staff members set a disoriented woman outside dressed only in a hospital gown. The hospital’s top executive has issued an apology to the patient and her family and is said to be taking full responsibility for the incident. In Maryland, the hospital president stated that due to hospital negligence, the facility failed to provide the patient basic compassion and humanity.

A video that has gone viral on social media shows hospital staff leaving a woman dressed only in a hospital gown out on the street. The temperature at the time was 30 degrees. A passerby dialed 911, and an ambulance took her back to the hospital. A witness stated the family members found the woman at a homeless shelter and that she is now home safe with her family.

This incident is in the forefront because it was caught on camera and broadcast over social media, but it remains unclear how widespread patient dumping is in Maryland. It is currently not tracked by state or federal officials. The Joint Commission requires that hospitals have a discharge plan for patients, and the Emergency Medical Treatment and Labor Act prohibits hospitals from denying services to patients unable to pay.

The long-term effects of this type of negligence could devastate the victim and family emotionally, physically and financially. An incisive Maryland attorney can represent a victim and her family in the event of hospital negligence. A lawyer who is well-versed in medical malpractice law can assist with claims for monetary damages, including pain and suffering.

Source: baltimoresun.com, “University of Maryland hospital apologizes for its failure to discharged patient found on street in hospital gown“, Andrea K. McDaniels, Meredith Cohn, Jan. 11, 2018