Tallahassee Memorial HealthCare (TMH) in Florida alleges the woman “continues to occupy” an inpatient bed despite being discharged on 6 October 2025 following acute medical treatment.

Staff have made “repeated efforts” to facilitate her discharge, including offering to co-ordinate with family members or provide transportation – all of which have been rebuffed.

The healthcare company has now asked a Florida judge to order the woman’s removal and authorise a local police department to assist if she continues to refuse, Fox News reports.

The case has drawn national attention, particularly among healthcare workers, who say so-called “bed blocking” is a common problem faced by hospitals – but that legal action is an unusual response.

“This case may set a precedent for how facilities handle patients who refuse discharge, and nurses should be aware of their hospital’s policies and legal options when standard discharge coordination fails,” Nurse.org reports.