Mother Sues Mount Nittany Medical Center After Son's Death

Lawsuit alleges negligence led to 24-year-old's death from pulmonary embolism

Published on Feb. 25, 2026

A Centre County mother has filed a lawsuit against Mount Nittany Medical Center, alleging negligence in the care of her 24-year-old son Kaleb S. Barth, who died in March 2025 from a pulmonary embolism five days after being discharged from the hospital despite worsening vital signs.

Why it matters

The lawsuit raises concerns about patient safety and medical oversight at Mount Nittany Medical Center, a prominent regional healthcare provider. It also highlights the potential consequences of alleged negligence in emergency room care and discharge procedures.

The details

According to the lawsuit, Barth went to the Mount Nittany emergency department in February 2025 with symptoms including numbness, foot pain, loss of balance, and calf pain. After medical tests, an ER physician allegedly noted signs of dehydration, low potassium, and liver issues, but still discharged Barth about six hours later. Barth was then scheduled to see a primary care doctor a month later, but died of a pulmonary embolism before that appointment.

  • Barth went to the Mount Nittany ER in February 2025.
  • Barth was discharged from the hospital about 6 hours after arriving.
  • Barth was scheduled to see a primary care doctor a month after his ER visit.
  • Barth died of a pulmonary embolism in March 2025, 5 days after being discharged.

The players

Misty Dickson

Kaleb Barth's mother, who filed the lawsuit against Mount Nittany Medical Center.

Kaleb S. Barth

A 24-year-old State College Area High School alumnus and hockey enthusiast who died after being discharged from Mount Nittany Medical Center.

Mount Nittany Medical Center

The regional healthcare provider in Pennsylvania that is being sued for alleged negligence in Kaleb Barth's care and discharge.

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What’s next

The judge in the case will decide whether to allow the lawsuit to proceed against Mount Nittany Medical Center.

The takeaway

This lawsuit highlights the need for thorough medical oversight and proper discharge procedures to ensure patient safety, especially for those with complex medical histories. It raises questions about the quality of care provided at regional healthcare facilities like Mount Nittany Medical Center.