“It is difficult to decide upon a single example of an unforgettable and devastating story. John Doe was a 42-year-old Black male. He came to the Emergency Department for treatment of “bad heartburn”. He denied any medical history though it was determined he was having a heart attack. Unfortunately, our facility lacked the necessary medical specialists, Cardiologists, as well as a critical care unit or heart catheterization capabilities. Therefore, Mr. Doe required transfer to a “sister hospital” with the expert doctors, nurses and facilities. We are taught “Time is Heart”. Yet, more than 3 hours passed before an accepting physician was found. More time was spent waiting for EMS transport. However, five minutes away was a medical center with heart specialists, cardiac catheterization suite, and dedicated critical care units. Yet, our greater organization frowns upon transfers to other health care organizations. It is unsettling watching the EKG validation of ongoing damage to a human heart, having knowledge of the appropriate therapeutic intervention, but the treatment is not available. The extensive damage to Mr. Doe’s heart caused him permanent heart failure and resulted in the implantation of an internal defibrillator. He is no longer able to work to provide for his family. The hospital and its greater organization failed John Doe, his family, and the community.”
