Back in June, our nation suffered the worst mass shooting in history. Shooter Omar Mateen, a 29-year-old security guard, killed 49 and wounded 53 people. Many people have been helping the community after this horrific incident; some celebrities made a video tribute to the victims. Many groups were spreading homophobic hate over this tragedy.
Now, a hospital in Orlando is writing off all of the medical bills for victims.
Orlando Health President and CEO David Strong said:
“The pulse shooting was a horrendous tragedy for the victims, their families and our entire community. During this very trying time, many organizations, individuals and charities have reached out to Orlando Health to show their support. This is simply our way of paying that kindness forward.”
People over profits: Orlando hospitals won’t bill survivors of Pulse nightclub shooting https://t.co/RyREQyNyGZ pic.twitter.com/Fmneofgbvt
— Amy Lynn Smith (@alswrite) August 25, 2016
The hospital closest to Pulse – Orlando Regional Medical Center – treated 44 of the 50 victims. They are a level 1 trauma center, and they are located just a few blocks from the club.
The hospital will still bill the insurance companies of the patients, but they are covering whatever the insurance won’t. They also won’t bill for any subsequent surgeries or follow-up treatment for the patients who were victims.
This is not the only hospital doing this for the victims. Florida Hospital, which is run by Florida Hospital and Adventist Health System’s Central Florida Region. Their CEO, Daryl Tol, said:
“It was incredible to see how our community came together in the wake of the senseless Pulse shooting. We hope this gesture can add to the heart and goodwill that defines Orlando.”
Orlando hospital says it won’t bill victims of June shooting at Pulse nightclub. https://t.co/Gvt9h3I2hE pic.twitter.com/oifxRg19CR
— CNN Breaking News (@cnnbrk) August 25, 2016
This is amazing news for them. There were several victims who don’t have health insurance; hopefully, this will help them get back on their feet. One person, Mario Perez, who was shot in the foot, was told his care could cost up to $20,000. These figures don’t include any mental health counseling for the victims. The hospital or some charitable organization should help in that way as well.
Here is a video of one of our writers, Kyle, visiting a memorial for the victims:
Featured image via Twitter.
