HB 6503 Summary

• Authorizes Hendry County Hospital Authority to pay $7.5 million to Rafael Rodriguez as compensation for negligence by hospital employees in treating his perforated diverticulitis in September-October 2007.

• Hospital's failure to perform necessary surgical intervention and delays in diagnosis resulted in Rodriguez developing an epidural abscess and becoming a quadriplegic requiring emergency surgery at another facility.

• Total settlement amount is $7.6 million, with the hospital having already paid the $100,000 statutory limit under Florida law; this bill appropriates the additional $7.5 million.

• Payment constitutes sole compensation for all present and future claims arising from the medical negligence described in the act.

• Attorney fees relating to the claim are limited to 25 percent of the amount awarded under this act.