Systems-Based Practice EMTALA: Ethics and the Law

Dr. Em & Dr. Taul's Emergency Room Adventure   Case 5 answer Is this a violation of EMTALA regulations?   Yes   (Incorrect).   Technically, under EMTALA, patients can be sent away without treatment if condition is determined non-emergent after the medical screening exam.  This presents an ethical dilemma to many physicians.  Patients who present with non-emergent conditions may, however, be referred to other facilities for treatment if the medical screening exam results in classification of the condition as non-emergent. No   (Correct) Though an unpalatable response, emergency facilities are burdened with large numbers of patients who for economic reasons, convenience, or because they are fearful about their symptoms, present for care with non-emergent conditions.  Facilities vary in their response to requests for care, but may refer non-emergent patients to less expensive, non-emergent facilities, or require substantial payment for services as a condition for being seen.   HOME                                                                          CONTINUE