Empoli hospital criticized after patient left on stretcher for 11 hours

The family of a 67-year-old woman with heart disease has reported significant neglect at the San Giuseppe Hospital emergency room in Empoli. After suffering a fall at her home in Capanne, the patient was reportedly left on a stretcher for over 11 hours.

According to her relatives, the woman waited from 11:30 a.m. until late in the evening to receive an X-ray. During this period, she was allegedly denied food and her regular heart medications. The family expressed frustration with the hospital's organization, particularly regarding its ability to manage patients with lower triage codes.

The incident has reignited local debate in Montopoli regarding healthcare access and hospital jurisdiction, as residents have previously advocated for easier access to the Lotti hospital in Pontedera.