Cleveland ambulance driver left patient with chest pain, called Uber home

One ambulance driver is facing accusations for abandoning a patient in Cleveland on Wednesday evening. The woman was being transported to the Cleveland Clinic for chest pain when the situation turned unusual.

The driver, who worked for a private ambulance company rather than Cleveland EMS, told the patient he had gotten lost. He then declared he was done driving for the day. After leaving the patient behind, the driver called an Uber to take him home.

The timeline of the incident shows a clear breakdown in the transfer of care. The patient was in the ambulance when the driver made the decision to stop. She was left at the scene while the driver departed in the ride-share vehicle.

A unit from Cleveland EMS responded to the location after the driver left. Paramedics on that unit administered medical care to the woman. They then transported her to the hospital.

CARE Local 1975, the local union for rescue employees, issued a statement regarding the event. A spokesperson said the organization stands by its EMTs, paramedics, and dispatchers who strive to provide the best care to anyone in need.

The private ambulance company also released a statement. It noted that patient safety and quality care are of the utmost importance. The company said immediate steps were taken to address the matter and ensure the patient’s well-being. It is continuing to review the circumstances and will take appropriate action based on the findings.