The victims of June’s shooting at Pulse Nightclub in Orlando won’t have to cover the cost of their medical fees.
Two Florida hospitals are absorbing medical costs, deciding not to bill survivors for out-of-pocket medical expenses. According to the Orlando Sentinel, Orlando Health and Florida Hospital will write off an estimated $5.5 million in care.
The shooting claimed the lives of 49 people and left 53 wounded. More than 50 victims required immediate medical attention, including nine people who died at area hospitals and one who remains hospitalized.
"The Pulse shooting was a horrendous tragedy for the victims, their families and our entire community," Orlando Health president and CEO David Strong told the paper. "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."
In addition to absorbing the medical costs, Orlando Health officials said they will try to work with patients struggling to afford follow-up care.
"While we can't assume the answer is free care forever, we will use our very generous charity and financial assistance policies" to help patients, spokeswoman Kena Lewis said.
