Estate blames hospital, doctors for negligent care of suicidal patient

HUNTINGTON -- The administrator of a deceased man's estate has filed suit against several medical professionals after they allegedly failed to provide proper psychiatric care.

John Milum, individually and as administrator of the estate of Billy R. Milum, filed suit June 5 in Cabell Circuit Court against St. Mary's Medical Center Inc., Dr. Cesar Briones Ibanez II and Dr. Bryan Nathan Chapman.

According to the complaint, on June 9, 2012, Billy Milum was taken to the defendant hospital because of complaints including suicidal thoughts, a heart condition and rib injury. During his examination Billy admitted to having suicidal thoughts and drinking a large amount of alcohol.

A toxicology screen showed he had a blood alcohol level of .289, the suit states.

Chapman saw Milum during his visit to the hospital and reviewed the nurse's prior note regarding his suicidal condition, but released Billy without any psychiatric evaluation or treatment. A week later on June 16, 2012, Billy was found deceased in his apartment due to a self-inflicted gunshot wound, the filing states.

The defendants are accused of negligence due to failing to perform a psychiatric evaluation during Milum's June 9 hospital visit, which contributed to the his physical and mental pain and suffering.

John Milum is seeking damages to cover medical expenses, pain and suffering, loss of income and court costs.

He is represented by Huntington attorney William L. Mundy of Mundy & Associates and Charleston attorney James M. Cagle.

Cabell Circuit Court Case No. 14-C-435