North Carolina Baptist Hospitals, Inc. v. Harris

MEYER, Justice.

On 20 January 1982 defendant Donnie Harris was admitted to plaintiff North Carolina Baptist Hospital for medical treatment. This treatment was in fact provided. It was stipulated by the parties that the treatment was necessary for the health and well-being of Mr. Harris.

At the time of Mr. Harris’ admission to the hospital, the hospital’s business office submitted to his wife, defendant Vern Dell Harris, a form to sign authorizing treatment. Vern Dell signed this form in her husband’s name, “by Vern Dell Harris.” She declined to sign as guarantor. The trial judge found as a fact…