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Widow Sues Rutland Regional Medical Center Over Husband's Wrongful Death
Lawsuit alleges hospital refused care, leading to man's death after discharge
Published on Feb. 4, 2026
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The widow of a 60-year-old Vermont man is suing Rutland Regional Medical Center for wrongful death after her husband died shortly after being discharged from the hospital and then refused care when brought back by EMTs.
Why it matters
This case raises concerns about patient discharge policies and the duty of care hospitals have to ensure the safety of vulnerable patients, especially those with significant medical conditions, before releasing them.
The details
According to the lawsuit, Jody Pidgeon was admitted to Rutland Regional Medical Center in February 2026 with a variety of serious medical issues. After a few days, he was told to leave the hospital. Police were called to escort him out, and he then crashed into a snowbank in the parking lot. EMTs brought him back to the hospital, but the lawsuit claims he was again refused care and died shortly after.
- In February 2026, Jody Pidgeon was admitted to Rutland Regional Medical Center.
- After a few days, Pidgeon was discharged from the hospital.
- After crashing into a snowbank, EMTs brought Pidgeon back to the hospital, but he was allegedly refused care and died soon after.
The players
Jody Pidgeon
A 60-year-old Vermont man who died shortly after being discharged from Rutland Regional Medical Center.
Rutland Regional Medical Center
A hospital in Rutland, Vermont that is facing a wrongful death lawsuit over the death of Jody Pidgeon.
What’s next
The judge will need to review the evidence and determine if Rutland Regional Medical Center is liable for Pidgeon's death.
The takeaway
This tragic case highlights the importance of hospitals having robust discharge policies to ensure the safety of vulnerable patients, especially those with complex medical conditions, before releasing them from care.
