FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Flint, Michigan -- Hurley is proud to be the safety net provider for this community for over 105 years.  We value the support of the patients who entrust us with their care and the dedication of our physicians and staff.  This includes Nurse Battle and her quarter century of professionalism and dedication.

While I cannot comment on the lawsuit and answer questions, I can share some insights. The issue was triggered by a father of a baby who demanded that no African American nurse be involved in his baby’s care. Upon making his demand, he then showed the nurse’s supervisor his swastika tattoo, which created anger and outrage in our staff.  This resulted in concern by supervisors for the safety of the staff.  For these reasons, the request was initially evaluated; however, the father was informed that his request could not be granted. 

Hurley Medical Center has had a rich history and reputation of supporting and valuing diversity and remains committed to our policy of non-discrimination.  As a premier academic medical center, Hurley strives to continuously provide education to our staff.  This issue will be used in future training sessions to ensure that employees are prepared to handle situations such as this. We appreciate the support of the Hurley staff, along with the community’s concern and involvement, as we publicly clarify the facts of this case. The medical center looks forward to a quick and amicable resolution. 

Melany Gavulic, RN, MBA
President & Chief Executive Officer
Hurley Medical Center

Hurley Medical Center is a 443-bed premier public teaching hospital located in the heart of Genesee County, Michigan.  As the region’s only Level I Trauma Center, Burn Center, and the highest level Neonatal Intensive Care Unit (NICU) and Pediatric Level II Trauma Center available in Genesee County, Hurley is a recognized leader in clinical care and education, maintaining affiliations with Michigan State University, the University of Michigan-Ann Arbor, the University of Michigan-Flint, Mott Community College, Henry Ford Health System and Children’s Hospital of Michigan-Detroit. Founded in 1908, Hurley provides patient care for more than 100,000 people annually.