Press Play with Madeleine Brand
New Hospital, New Hope to Replace King Drew Medical Center
When King Drew Medical Center opened in South L.A. in 1972 it was more than just a hospital. It was a symbol of hope and empowerment for L.A.’s African-American community. The hospital represented healing for people still recovering from the Watts riots. But over time, that promise faded.
By Madeleine Brand • • 1 min readWhen King Drew Medical Center opened in South L.A. in 1972 it was more than just a hospital. It was a symbol of hope and empowerment for L.A.’s African-American community. The hospital represented healing for people still recovering from the Watts riots. But over time, that promise faded. King Drew had such a bad reputation it was known as “Killer King.” The hospital was finally shut down eight years ago -- after aLos Angeles Times investigation detailed years of malpractice and mismanagement. This summer, a brand new facility is opening in its place. Martin Luther King Jr. Community Hospital starts treating patients in July. Is it the beginning of a new era?
Madeleine Brand
Host, 'Press Play'
Jolie Myers
Managing Producer, 'Press Play'
Matt Holzman
Producer, 'The Document'
Anna Scott
Former KCRW Housing and Homelessness Reporter
Charles Ornstein
ProPublica
Jasmyne Cannick
social and political commentator
Mark Ghaly
Deputy Director for Community Health for the LA County Dept of Health Services