FL S0066

Hendry County Hospital Authority shall appropriate $7.5 million to Rafael Rodriguez as compensation for injuries resulting from negligence of hospital employees who failed to provide timely surgical intervention for a perforated diverticulum and resulting epidural abscess.

Rodriguez became a quadriplegic after hospital staff delayed necessary surgical treatment between September 30 and October 23, 2007, despite clear clinical evidence of infection and neurological deterioration.

The $7.5 million payment, combined with the $100,000 statutory limit already paid under Florida law, provides sole compensation for all present and future claims arising from this incident.

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

Act takes effect upon becoming law.