A confusing and chaotic situation unfolded after a man seeking medical help ended up bouncing between hospitals—and bringing police into the mix.
Officers were called to King’s Daughters Medical Center after a patient reported being assaulted. The man claimed someone struck him in the back with a golf club and said staff at Southern Ohio Medical Center (SOMC) told him he had five broken vertebrae—but, according to him, refused to treat him.
Hospital security at SOMC had a different account. They told officers the man got tired of waiting for care and left on his own to seek help elsewhere. In fact, officers learned that Grant Hospital in Columbus had already accepted the man for transfer and an ambulance was on its way to pick him up when he walked out.
This incident highlights a common frustration for patients: long ER wait times. While delays can be agonizing—especially when you’re in pain or scared—leaving the hospital property mid-process can create confusion, delay care, or even risk your health.
So, what should you do when the wait feels unbearable?
- Ask for Updates: It’s okay to politely ask how long the wait might be or whether you’re still in line for treatment or transfer.
- Talk to a Nurse or Advocate: Hospitals often have patient advocates or charge nurses who can explain what’s happening and what your options are.
- Stay Visible: Leaving the waiting area or walking out of the hospital can interrupt your care and cause delays. If you feel you’re being overlooked, check in again at the desk.
- Bring a Support Person: Having someone with you can help keep your stress levels down and ensure you don’t miss important information.
- Know When to Escalate: If you believe your condition is getting worse or you’re in extreme distress, tell someone immediately. Emergency departments triage based on severity, so letting them know your pain has increased can make a difference.
Health care delays can be deeply frustrating—but staying on-site and communicating clearly gives you the best shot at timely care without unnecessary complications.