Florida ER doc loses custody temporarily of daughter, 4, over coronavirus fears

MIAMI, Fla. — A divorced emergency room physician in Miami has lost custody of her 4-year-old daughter while she continues to treat novel coronavirus patients, multiple media outlets reported.

"In order to protect the best interests of the minor child, including but not limited to the minor child’s safety and welfare, this Court temporarily suspends the Former Wife’s timesharing until further Order of Court," Circuit Judge Bernard Shapiro wrote in his ruling, adding, "The suspension is solely related to the outbreak of COVID-19.”

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Dr. Theresa Greene told CNN’s “New Day” she is appealing Shapiro’s emergency order that granted her ex-husband, Eric Greene, full custody of their daughter.

"I think it's not fair. It's cruel to ask me to choose between my child and the oath I took as a physician," Greene said. "I won't abandon my team at work or the patients who will increasingly look to me to save their lives in the coming weeks, but it's torture."

According to Fox News, Theresa Green has tested negative for the coronavirus and continues to follow the American Medical Association’s guidance for first responders and front-line physicians during the pandemic, which clearly states that health care professionals can interact and live with their families if they take necessary health precautions.

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Meanwhile, Theresa Greene told CNN she has had no problem securing and wearing approved protective gear to perform her duties.

“Yes, it is severe and there is danger, and we’re being very careful,” she told the network, adding, “We use everything we can. I’ve actually worn equipment above and beyond to protect myself and my child.”

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Shapiro remained unconvinced the measures protect the child.

"The Court does not enter this Order lightly but given the pandemic in Florida and the recent increase in confirmed COVID-19 cases, the Court finds in order to insulate and protect the best interests and health of the minor child, this Order must be entered on a temporary basis," he wrote in his ruling.

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