Indiana Hospital Fires Staff After Turning Away Pregnant Black Woman

In a deeply concerning incident that highlights ongoing issues in Black maternal healthcare, a doctor and nurse at Franciscan Health Crown Point in Indiana have been fired. This action follows allegations that they turned away a pregnant Black woman, Mercedes Wells, who was in active labor, leading her to give birth in her husband’s car on the side of the highway.

A Harrowing Experience for the Wells Family

The incident occurred on November 16th when Mercedes Wells and her husband, Leon, arrived at the hospital. They had called ahead the previous day to inform staff of her impending due date. However, upon arrival, they claim they were met with unsupportive staff and told to go home, with the nurse at admissions stating Wells wasn’t far enough along in labor.

A viral video captured Wells, clearly in distress and breathing heavily in a wheelchair inside the hospital before being escorted out by security. Despite being in “excruciating pain,” she was denied admission. Tragically, just eight minutes later, Wells gave birth to her baby girl in her husband’s car on the roadside. She later received care at a different hospital.

Hospital Acknowledges Failure and Takes Action

Raymond Grady, President and CEO of Franciscan Health Crown Point, confirmed in a statement that the physician and nurse directly involved in Mrs. Wells’ care are no longer employed by the hospital. He acknowledged that the actions of these former employees “does not reflect the values of Franciscan Health Crown Point, which include respect for life and compassionate concern.”

Grady admitted that the hospital “failed to listen to Mrs. Wells’ concerns,” recognizing that as an experienced mother who had previously had a positive experience at their facility, she knew something was wrong. He emphasized the need to “fix what failed” to prevent similar incidents.

Commitment to Change and Accountability

In response to the incident, Grady announced mandated cultural competency training for all labor and delivery staff. Additionally, all pregnant patients leaving the Labor and Delivery unit will now be examined by a physician before discharge. He extended a sincere apology to Mrs. Wells and her family on behalf of Franciscan Alliance and Franciscan Health Crown Point.

The Wells family has retained a lawyer, alleging mistreatment due to their race. This incident sadly adds to the ongoing, heartbreaking narrative of Black women not being heard or properly cared for during pregnancy and childbirth, underscoring the critical need for equitable and compassionate healthcare for all.