Alert: Kids Spending Months in Hospitals

A staggering 276 days - that's how long one child spent in a Tennessee hospital after being medically cleared for release.

Key Numbers at a Glance

Days spent in hospital: 276 days
Cost to taxpayers: Undisclosed
Children affected: Hundreds

What Happened

The Department of Children's Services (DCS) has no place to put children in state custody, so they're staying in hospitals long after they've been cleared for release.

9 months is the longest recorded stay for a child who should have been released from a children's hospital.

Why This Matters to You

If you're a taxpayer, you're footing the bill for these extended hospital stays, which could be costing millions of dollars.

For example, a 10-year-old with Muscular Dystrophy stayed for 103 days at the East Tennessee Children's Hospital in Knoxville, all at the expense of Tennessee taxpayers.

Expert View / Market Reaction

State Sen. Heidi Campbell, D-Nashville, says 'Our state is failing... we've failed these children and we've quite frankly failed DCS.'

DCS Commissioner Margie Quin acknowledges that these youth are 'extremely difficult to place' and that hospitals are concerned about the long-term stays.

Bigger Picture / Context

This issue highlights a larger problem with the foster care system in Tennessee and the lack of resources available to care for children in state custody.

It's not just a Tennessee problem - other states are facing similar challenges in providing adequate care for children in foster care.

What Should You Do Now?

If you're concerned about this issue, contact your local representatives and demand action to address the lack of resources for children in state custody.

Consider volunteering or donating to organizations that support foster care and children's welfare in your community.

Frequently Asked Questions

Why are kids spending months in hospitals?

Because the Department of Children's Services has no place else to put them.

How much does it cost taxpayers?

The cost is undisclosed, but it's likely in the millions of dollars.

What can I do to help?

Contact your local representatives, volunteer, or donate to organizations that support foster care and children's welfare.

As the situation continues to unfold, one thing is clear: the fate of these children hangs in the balance, and it's up to us to demand change.

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