Former Palo Verde Hospital Executives File Suit Against Board, Healthcare District

The former CEO, CNO and finance director of Palo Verde Hospital in Blythe, Calif., have filed a federal lawsuit against the hospital’s board president, two board members and the healthcare district, according to a Palo Verde Valley Times report.

Advertisement

The suit claims that emergency patients were being illegally steered to a private fixed-wing medical transport company owned by board president Trina Sartin, instead of to the faster helipad and medical transport operated by the healthcare district, jeopardizing the health of the patients, according to the report.

The diversion was allegedly made to increase Ms. Sartin’s profits, “even when this choice of transport is potentially detrimental or even life-threatening to the patient,” according to the plaintiffs’ complaint, as cited in the report.

The suit also alleges the board members conspired with the healthcare district to dismiss a previous suit filed against the surgeon who had been diverting patients to Ms. Sartin’s medical transport company, according to the report.

More Articles on Hospital Lawsuits:

Nearly 250 Patients to Split Stent Settlement From CHI, Dr. Mark Midei
Tri-City Wins Arbitration Over “No-Hire” Provision, Replaces NICU Director
Dubuis Health System Settles False Claims Suit With $8M

At the Becker's 11th Annual IT + Revenue Cycle Conference: The Future of AI & Digital Health, taking place September 14–17 in Chicago, healthcare executives and digital leaders from across the country will come together to explore how AI, interoperability, cybersecurity, and revenue cycle innovation are transforming care delivery, strengthening financial performance, and driving the next era of digital health. Apply for complimentary registration now.

Download Whitepaper

The cost-saving opportunity most health systems overlook

Many hospitals and health systems scrutinize staffing, service lines, and payer contracts for savings. Fewer look at one of their largest assets: real estate.…

Advertisement

Next Up in Legal & Regulatory Issues

Advertisement

Comments are closed.