Coroner calls ED death a homicide--some predict chilling effect.
A coroner's claim opens the possibility of criminal charges against ED staff for the death of a patient. While you can't prevent legal action from being taken, you can limit the potential liability of you and your staff. Ensure that your staff follow reasonable triage procedures at all times. Make sure your triage staff are well trained and portray good intentions. Keep your patients and their families informed about timeliness of service and any delays.
D003334:Coroners and Medical Examiners; D004636:Emergency Service, Hospital / Q000592:standards*; D005260:Female; D006708:Homicide; D006801:Humans; D007087:Illinois; D016365:Liability, Legal; D008318:Malpractice; D008875:Middle Aged; D011787:Quality of Health Care; D020521:Stroke; D013997:Time Factors; D014218:Triage / Q000592:standards