Also known as: Diabetic foot infection
Maggie Kent, an uninsured patient brought in by Dr. Kelso, has a severe diabetic foot condition requiring surgical intervention. The staff works around the system to provide her care, including finding her a bed under a deceased patient's name and arranging pro bono surgery. Dr. Kelso ultimately ensures she receives treatment after discovering the staff didn't help her due to fear of being fired.
Also known as: Skin cancer
A melanoma patient mentioned as being left overnight by Dr. Cox after the private practice doctor went home at 5 PM, used by Dr. Kelso to set up his prank on Elliot.
Also known as: Heroin addiction
Sam, a former drug addict who previously scammed Dr. Reid for painkillers, is now working as a drug counselor at the hospital. Dr. Cox suspects he is still using drugs and orchestrates a sting operation that reveals Sam has been collecting drugs from his counseling patients. This storyline explores themes of trust, relapse, and cynicism in addiction recovery.