Systems-Based Practice EMTALA: Ethics and the Law

Dr. Em & Dr. Taul's Emergency Room Adventure   Case 6  ED not on Managed Care contract A 6-year-old male is brought to the emergency room by ambulance following a motor vehicle accident.  He is unconscious.  Immediate measures are started to stabilize his condition.  His parents arrive shortly thereafter.  His mother asks your receptionist to notify their manage care organization.  The receptionist is not familiar with that particular organization, and subsequently ascertains that your ED is not on the list of emergency providers. What should be done? The patient should be transferred immediately to the ED that has a contract with your patient. Medical care should continue uninterrupted. The patient should be stabilized, but cannot be admitted to your hospital. ANSWER