Parrish Medical Center Responds to Social Media Outcry Over Discharged Patient

Parrish Medical Center (PMC) is facing criticism after a social media post alleged a homeless man was dropped off at a local ministry in a soiled shirt and wheelchair.

The post, shared by Pastor Royce Morrison of LifePointe Ministries, detailed the arrival of a man with congestive heart failure, diabetes, and a missing leg.

The man was reportedly left with no pants and “extremely weak.” LifePointe Ministries volunteers provided food, clothing, and hygiene products before contacting the hospital.

According to the post, the hospital initially claimed the man was “medically cleared” before eventually sending a cab to pick him up. However, the cab driver was allegedly instructed to take the man to Sand Point Park, a location with ordinances against homeless people.

Volunteers from Under The Bridge Ministry later met the man at the park and contacted the Department of Children and Families (DCF).

In response to the viral social media post, PMC released an open letter from CEO George Mikitarian. The letter acknowledged the homelessness crisis and the hospital’s commitment to working with community partners. Mikitarian emphasized the importance of “collegial collaboration” and criticized “reckless commentary” on social media.

The letter also offered a different perspective on the discharged patient. Mikitarian identified the man as insured and having estranged family in the area.

The letter claimed the man had visited the emergency room eight times in recent months and “uses the emergency department for room and board.” PMC stated they offered the man various resources, including rehab services, shelter arrangements, and primary care, all of which he allegedly refused.

Mikitarian concluded by commending the hospital’s staff and apologizing for the man being taken to the wrong location. He reiterated PMC’s commitment to finding solutions alongside community partners.

The situation has sparked a debate about patient care, homelessness, and the responsibility of healthcare institutions. While Parrish Medical Center emphasizes their efforts to connect the patient with resources, LifePointe Ministries highlights the vulnerable state in which the man was left.

You can read the whole Open Letter by Parrish Medical Center here