Nancy W. sued Erie County Medical Center, and several of its doctors, after her husband took his own life.
While a patient at the hospital, Nancy's spouse was under the care of two doctors, and hospital staff supposedly checked on him every half hour.
While a medical institution has an obligation to protect patients from self-imposed harm, both the Erie County Supreme Court and the Appellate Division, Fourth Department, were of the view the hospital fulfilled that duty by adhering to its treatment plan and regularly checking on its patient.
That was no way to go.
To view a copy of the Appellate Division's decision, please use this link: W. v. Jehle