Tallahassee Hospital filed a lawsuit in Florida state court, according to the AP news agency on 19/3. The complaint states that doctors discharged the female patient in room 373 on 6/10/2025, after determining she no longer required emergency care services.

However, after over five months, she continues to stay and "occupy" an inpatient room at the medical facility. The hospital reported multiple attempts to complete the patient's discharge procedures, including coordinating with relatives and offering transportation for her to obtain necessary identification documents. Nevertheless, these efforts failed.

Tallahassee Hospital has requested that the Florida state court issue a ruling compelling the woman to vacate the hospital room, and also allow the local sheriff's office to assist with enforcement if needed.

A sign outside Tallahassee Hospital, Florida, on 3/2/2023. Photo: AP

The hospital argues that the patient's continued stay has strained its treatment operations. Tallahassee Hospital has limited inpatient beds, and one person occupying a room after being discharged prevents the hospital from allocating space for patients needing more prioritized care.

The hospital also contends that it has diverted staff and resources to manage this case, affecting the treatment of other patients.

According to People, the woman received written notice that she would be sued if she did not leave. However, the lawsuit does not specify her illness, the cost of her hospital stay, or why this situation has persisted for the past five months.

An online hearing for the lawsuit is expected to take place late this month. The woman currently has no legal representation and is defending herself. Phone numbers listed in her online database are currently unreachable.

Under the Emergency Medical Treatment and Labor Act, hospitals receiving funding from the Medicare program must provide care to anyone arriving at the emergency room in an urgent condition, regardless of whether they have insurance or the ability to pay. The federal Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services can investigate hospitals for violating this regulation.

However, doctors can discharge patients when they determine that outpatient treatment is suitable, provided the individual receives an appropriate follow-up plan in the discharge instructions.

Ha Linh (According to AP, People)