LOS ANGELES – Kaiser Permanente hospital has been accused of unloading homeless patients on downtown’s Skid Row instead of discharging them to family members or shelters.

According to city officials, the practice is surprisingly common, and Los Angeles has initiated a campaign to stop it. The hospital is the first to be criminally charged in the campaign. Nine other hospitals are currently being investigated under related accusations.

Kaiser’s Bellflower facility is accused of calling a taxicab to transport Carol Ann Reyes, 63, to Skid Row and leave her there to wander around the dangerous neighborhood in her gown and slippers. Prosecutors say Reyes, who lives in a public park in Gardena, was not informed of the hospital’s intent to take her to Skid Row. The city attorney’s office is charging the hospital with endangering dependent patients, false imprisonment and, under state law, unfair business practices.

Kaiser’s Vice President of Public Affairs Diana Bonta says the hospital has ceased using taxicabs to transport patients to Skid Row since learning of the incident, which occurred in March.

A conviction would place the hospital under probation, which would limit its behavior and contain possible penalties. Its bonding and ratings may also be affected.

The American Civil Liberties Union says it too will sue on behalf of Reyes.

If you appreciated this article and want to receive more valuable industry content like this, click here to sign up for our FREE digital newsletters!

Related Content