Patient Dumping and Medical Malpractice: What Maryland and DC Patients Need to Know
When patients walk into a hospital, they expect care, dignity, and compassion—especially when they’re at their most vulnerable. So when those expectations are shattered, the consequences can be devastating. One of the clearest examples of this failure is “patient dumping”—the illegal and unethical practice of abandoning patients before they are medically stable, often leaving them at risk and without support.
A disturbing recent case at the University of Maryland Medical Center in Baltimore shocked the nation and put a spotlight on the real human cost of neglect by medical professionals. At the Law Offices of Kim Parker, PA, our mission is to help patients and families fight back when the healthcare system turns its back on them.
The Viral Case: Patient Dumped in the Cold
In January 2018, a video captured by a bystander went viral: a 22-year-old woman, identified by her mother as Rebecca, was wheeled out of the University of Maryland Medical Center by hospital security and left at a bus stop in nothing but a hospital gown and socks. This happened in 30-degree weather. She was visibly disoriented, bloodied, and incoherent—yet hospital staff left her without proper clothing, protection, or any real plan for ongoing care.
The woman’s mother, Cheryl, spoke out after the incident to correct widespread misinformation and highlight the devastating effects of the event on her daughter, who suffers from a serious mental illness. Cheryl described the incident as “heartbreaking, horrifying,” and emblematic of a system that too often discards those who most need help. Rebecca’s case quickly became a rallying point for patient advocates, and it raised important questions about legal rights and hospital responsibilities.
Why This Matters: Legal Responsibilities of Hospitals and Staff
What happened at University of Maryland Medical Center wasn’t just unethical. It may have been illegal. Federal law—including the Emergency Medical Treatment and Labor Act (EMTALA)—requires hospitals to provide care to patients in emergency situations and to ensure stable transfer or discharge. This law exists precisely to prevent situations where a vulnerable patient is abandoned or sent out into unsafe circumstances.
Unfortunately, “patient dumping” still happens—and many victims, especially those facing mental illness or poverty, struggle to be heard. Medical staff—including doctors, nurses, and administrative workers—all have a duty to provide proper care. When they fall short, resulting injury or trauma can give families the right to pursue a medical malpractice claim.
What Is Medical Malpractice?
Medical malpractice happens when a healthcare provider fails to deliver the accepted standard of care and a patient is hurt as a result. In cases of patient dumping, this may include:
- Discharging a patient who is clearly unstable, confused, or unable to care for themselves
- Failing to properly assess mental health or injury
- Refusing to involve family or guardians when appropriate
- Ignoring basic patient dignity and safety
Victims of medical malpractice may be entitled to compensation for their pain, suffering, medical bills, and other damages.
How the Law Offices of Kim Parker PA Can Help
Cases like Rebecca’s make headlines, but they’re only the tip of the iceberg. If you or a loved one has been neglected, abandoned, or mistreated by a hospital or clinic in Maryland or DC, you don’t have to fight alone.
The Law Offices of Kim Parker PA specializes in holding medical providers accountable for lapses in basic care and respect. We handle medical malpractice claims involving:
- Patient abandonment and dumping
- Failure to treat mental health crises
- Improper discharges
- Negligence by hospital staff
We understand the emotional toll these incidents take, and we’re here to listen to your story, explain your options, and fight for your rights.
Take Action Today
No one should have to worry about being abandoned by the very institutions meant to protect their health. If you believe you or your family has been a victim of medical malpractice or patient dumping, don’t wait. Evidence can disappear quickly, and legal deadlines may apply.
Contact the Law Offices of Kim Parker PA for a free consultation 410-234-2621. Your case matters, your story matters, and we’re ready to help you demand justice.
For more guidance on your rights and updates on medical malpractice news in Maryland and DC, follow us online or call our office. Let’s work together to hold hospitals accountable—and build a safer healthcare system for everyone.