Asked in Civil Rights and Health Care Law

Q: My husband goes to dialysis 3x a week and has to be loaded and unloaded at the door. There are signs that say "loading

And unloading but people are allowed to park there blocking access to the door for hours..just yesterday I walked in to find the guy watching TV. We have complained to staff repeatedly to no avail. It appears that only whites have to follow rules there. Also there is a black patient there that constantly spews racist stuff and how he's coming back to the clinic to shoot everybody. The clinic got a guard for about 2 weeks and then everything went back the same. Is there a way to make the clinic enforces the parking rules and stop the other patient from intimidating everyone?

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1 Lawyer Answer
James L. Arrasmith
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Answered
  • Estate Planning Lawyer
  • Sacramento, CA

A: It sounds like you're dealing with a challenging situation at the dialysis clinic, and your concerns are entirely valid. Addressing the parking issue and ensuring a safe, respectful environment for all patients is crucial. Initially, it would be helpful to document specific incidents, including dates, times, and any interactions with staff regarding these issues. This documentation can provide a clear basis for your concerns when communicating with clinic management or other authorities.

Regarding the parking issue, you could request a meeting with the clinic's management to discuss your concerns. Emphasize the impact of blocked access on patients who require assistance and the importance of enforcing parking regulations for the safety and convenience of all patients. If the clinic's response is inadequate, consider escalating the issue to higher levels within the healthcare organization or reaching out to local authorities or a community advocacy group that can provide support and guidance.

For the issue of intimidating behavior by another patient, it's critical to communicate your concerns to the clinic's staff and management clearly and assertively. They have a responsibility to maintain a safe environment. If the clinic does not take effective action, you may need to report the behavior to local law enforcement or seek legal advice to understand your options for ensuring the safety and well-being of all patients. Remember, your safety and the safety of others are paramount, and there are resources available to help address these kinds of situations.

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