KINDNESS

Orlando Hospitals Won’t Bill Pulse Shooting Victims


For medical expenses from Pulse nightclub massacre.



The Florida emergency facilities that treated the victims of the Pulse gay nightclub massacre in Orlando this summer will not bill the patients involved in the horrific event. The companies, Orlando Health and Florida Hospital, announced Wednesday they will instead write off at least $5.5 million in care. On June 12, 49 people were killed and dozens more were injured, after Omar Mateen opened fire on unsuspecting club-goers. “The Pulse shooting was a horrendous tragedy for the victims, their families and our entire community,” said Orlando Health President and CEO David Strong. “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.” Orlando Health’s main hospital is Orlando Regional Medical Center, which treated 44 of the victims. The families of the nine patients who died after arriving at the facility also will not be charged. Florida Hospital said it won’t even be billing the victims’ insurance, and will also absorb the costs of follow-up surgeries for survivors. “It was incredible to see how our community came together in the wake of the senseless Pulse shooting,” said Daryl Tol, the president and CEO. “We hope this gesture can add to the heart and goodwill that defines Orlando.”