Palm Coast Authorities Arrest Woman for Impersonating Licensed Nurse, Treating Thousands Without Certification
PALM COAST, FL — A Florida woman is facing serious legal consequences after authorities discovered she had been impersonating a licensed nurse and treating thousands of patients without any legitimate medical credentials. The woman, identified as 29-year-old Autumn Bardisa, was arrested following an internal investigation that raised concerns about her employment records and qualifications.
The troubling discovery was made at AdventHealth Palm Coast Parkway, where Bardisa had been employed since July 2023. Over the course of nearly a year, she is believed to have treated more than 4,400 patients under false pretenses. Hospital officials say her duties included administering medications, monitoring vital signs, and providing patient care — all tasks that require a valid nursing license.
Concerns about Bardisa’s credentials came to light when a co-worker noticed inconsistencies in her paperwork and professional background. This prompted hospital administrators to launch a detailed review of her employment file, which revealed that she had used fraudulent documents to gain employment. Once the deception became apparent, law enforcement was immediately notified.
The Flagler County Sheriff’s Office took Bardisa into custody and confirmed she is facing multiple felony charges related to fraud, practicing healthcare without a license, and identity theft. Sheriff Rick Staly described the situation as “deeply disturbing” and emphasized the risks it posed to patient safety.
“This is not only a serious crime — it’s a violation of trust,” Sheriff Staly said in a press statement. “Thousands of patients received medical care from someone who had no legal or professional authority to treat them. We will ensure justice is served.”
Hospital officials also released a statement expressing their shock and disappointment. They noted that strict hiring protocols are in place but acknowledged that Bardisa had successfully bypassed multiple verification processes. In response, AdventHealth has pledged to review and strengthen its background check procedures to prevent similar incidents in the future.
Local health authorities are now working to identify and notify patients who may have been impacted by Bardisa’s unauthorized care. So far, there are no reported cases of patient harm directly linked to her actions, but the investigation remains ongoing.
The Florida Department of Health is also involved, examining how such a significant breach could have occurred in a regulated medical setting. Officials are urging the public to report any similar suspicious activities within healthcare institutions, emphasizing the importance of maintaining high professional standards.
Bardisa remains in custody as she awaits her next court appearance. If convicted, she could face a lengthy prison sentence and substantial fines. Meanwhile, affected patients and their families are seeking clarity, answers, and accountability.
Anyone with additional information is encouraged to contact the Flagler County Sheriff’s Office. The case continues to raise questions about gaps in the healthcare employment system and the potential consequences of fraudulent medical activity.
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