When computers crashed, one Milwaukee hospital turned away ambulances

At least four patients, including one who was having a life-threatening heart attack, were turned away


Froedtert Hospital in Milwaukee, Wis., shut its emergency department doors to most incoming ambulances for two hours in late August because of a computer failure, turning away at least four patients, including one who was having a life-threatening heart attack, according to an article on the Milwaukee Journal-Sentinel website.

Less than a week later, two of Ascension Wisconsin's hospitals — in Milwaukee and nearby Ozaukee County — had a similar situation. Computers were out for eight hours. However, Ascension did not go on diversion.

The contrasting responses illustrate how a voluntary ban against ambulance diversion in Milwaukee County is being interpreted differently.

Under the voluntary ban, launched in April 2016, Milwaukee County hospitals can only divert ambulances under certain limited circumstances, such as if there is a fire, electrical outage, gunman on the grounds or other disasters.

Read the article.     

 



September 12, 2019


Topic Area: Safety


Recent Posts

The Top Three Pathogens to Worry About in 2026

Key viruses to watch out for and how to prevent them.


Blackbird Health Opens New Pediatric Mental Health Clinic in Virginia

It offers comprehensive evaluations, therapy and medication management under one roof.


Baptist Medical Center Jacksonville to Get Inpatient Rehabilitation Unit

Baptist Center for Inpatient Rehabilitation, managed by Brooks Rehabilitation, is expected to see its first patients in spring 2027.


Building Envelopes Emerge As Key Facility Components

From enclosure commissioning and air-moisture control to decarbonization and thermal comfort, exterior systems affect energy efficiency and resilience.


Catholic Medical Center Breaks Ground on New Central Energy Plant

The new central energy plant is expected to be completed in early 2027.


 
 


FREE Newsletter Signup Form

News & Updates | Webcast Alerts
Building Technologies | & More!

 
 
 


All fields are required. This site is protected by reCAPTCHA and the Google Privacy Policy and Terms of Service apply.

 
 
 
 

Healthcare Facilities Today membership includes free email newsletters from our facility-industry brands.

Facebook   Twitter   LinkedIn   Posts

Copyright © 2023 TradePress. All rights reserved.