Beebe Medical Center in Delaware Faces Lawsuit After Patient Dies in Lobby

The family of a 38-year-old man has sued Beebe Medical Center in Lewes, Del., alleging medical negligence and wrongful death after the man was found dead in the lobby post-discharge, according to a News Journal report.

Melvin Dillard Jr. was found dead in a lobby chair in Beebe's emergency department in June, according to the report. ED staff told Mr. Dillard he could go home after he had been seen for chest pains, but he died of a heart attack while waiting for transportation from the hospital. Sussex Emergency Associates, the operator of Beebe's ED, is also listed on the lawsuit.

The hospital released a statement, saying Mr. Dillard "was seen, treated appropriately following all protocols and was discharged in stable condition. While sleeping in the lobby waiting for a ride, the individual passed away," according to the report. The hospital did not issue further comment.

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