What an important topic. Although Iāve not seen a patient carrying a firearm, Iāve never seen a healthcare worker allow delays in care, but the opposite, following their code of ethics when it comes to the care and safety of the patient.
What does your state law say about it? Would you feel comfortable calling your local hospitals to ask?
One state Iām familiar with states in the law around conceal carry licensure, itās unlawful to carry a firearm into a hospital. Of the hospitals Iāve visited, they post āNo Firearmsā signs.
If allowed to store a firearm as a patient, I began to wonder if I had time, to unload my firearm, carry a lock, and lock it, and or carry a small valet case which I can additionally place a tiny lock on it - on the outside. Such as a case I can flatten when empty for easy carry or EDC in my shoulder bag or vehicle.
If locking inside oneās car is an option, that could be one solution, time permitting.
Friendly reminder: In some states, most licensed health care workers by law are mandated to report to the FOID authorities - if they treat a patient whom they believe might be intellectually disabled āupon dischargeā. State FOID authorities can then investigate whether they need to revoke or not. Word to the wise, invest further in your mental wellness, because certain mental health conditions fall under the intellectually disabled clause.
Many healthcare workers do not realize or understand the intricacies of this law. Therefore, if they discover that you have a firearm, they will ask themselves if they need to report it to the FOID authorities. Be āveryā nice.
Have some action plans on the ready. Stay healthy, safe, and legal.