Mystery Death of Patient at Beth Israel

MYFOXNY.COM - A 33-year-old woman went to Beth Israel Medical Center with an upset stomach -- and a few days later, she died. Her grieving family wants to know what happened to Christine Rivera.

Watch the report from fox 5's Andrea Day (video, left).

It began when Christine, who lived in an assisted living center, started throwing up and took an ambulance to Beth Israel. When she got there, she called her sister, Elizabeth, from the emergency room.

Elizabeth said she spoke to doctor to make sure they knew Christine needed special care. Christine suffered from seizures, was bipolar and schizophrenic. Barely two days later, Elizabeth said her sister was gone.

The family said Christine was moved to the hospital's psychiatric ward and placed in a room by herself. By the time the Rivera family arrived, they said Christine was covered with bruises they could not explain.

The Rivera family said they found Christine in the hospital -- brain dead -- with only machines keeping her alive.

They are now pouring through medical records, trying to figure out what happened to Christine.

The family is waiting for the autopsy to be finalized.

Statement from Beth Israel Medical Center
March 27, 2009
Everyone at Beth Israel Medical Center involved in Ms. Rivera's care extends their deepest condolences to her family. Beth Israel fully embraces a policy of complete disclosure with regard to the care we provide. To this end, we have met with Ms. Rivera's family and have reviewed with them all that we know to date about the care provided to her. We are working with the State Department of Health in reviewing this case. However, because these reviews are ongoing, we cannot comment further at this time. As soon at our reviews are concluded, we will share all findings with the Rivera family.