Los Angeles says VA 'dumped' patient at shelter

[marmar]

from the LA Times:



The graying veteran in a wheelchair was found in the parking lot of a Westside cold weather shelter wearing hospital pants, carrying a urine bottle and screaming for help.

Senior officials at the Los Angeles city attorney's office say they believe James Boykin was "dumped" Dec. 1 at the shelter after his toe was removed at the nearby Department of Veterans Affairs medical center because of a bone infection. Moreover, according to city prosecutors, VA officials blocked an investigation that could have shed light on whether there were other similar incidents.

"This was an unprecedented interference with an investigation," said Jeffrey B. Isaacs, who heads the office's criminal and special litigation branch.

VA officials strongly dispute the allegations involving Boykin, adding that the city does not have authority to conduct a criminal investigation on federal property. Three internal inquiries and an investigation by the VA's Office of Inspector General found no evidence that Boykin was sent to the shelter against his will or without the means and ability to care for himself. ........(more)

The complete piece is at: http://www.latimes.com/news/local/la-me-patient-dumping-20110814,0,11559.story?track=rss

[AnneD]

1. I had the experience ....

Of a dumped mental patient wondering into my apartment. This was an elderly confused Africian American woman. It was a very hot day in July and I had no idea as to how long she had been outside. She had her wristband on and a manila envelope in her hand. She accused me of living in her house.

Fortunantly for her I was a nurse and figured out that she was dumped by one of the local psych hospital. I offered her water and some cantaloup. While she was eating I called 911 and ask them to send an officer. I explained the situation to dispatch. I kept trying to stall her until they arrived. Fortunantly, I got a nice older officer. He looked through the paperwork and was able to get the next of kin while I distracted her. We were able to get her back but I shudder to think of that poor confused elderly lady having a heat stroke. I hope the family sued because in my mind, the were guilty of negligence at the least, attempted murder at the worst. I know it is tough on hospitals, but dumping is wrong. And for the VA to do it, I hope they throw the book at those wankers. And yes, a crime was committed and they have jurisdiction to investigate.

[blueamy66]

2. makes me sick

Is this the USA I live in?

fuck

But hey, I remember, as a 21 year old, flying back to NY with my Mom to take care of her Dad who had diabetes and lost some toes and was in rehab. I guess the 2 other children that actually LIVED IN NY couldn't do anything. This was the Dad that dropped the ball with my Mom many times....but she still loved him.

fuck again