Issue link: https://blog.providence.org/i/1541294
What is an Emergency Medical Condition (EMC)? A medical condition manifesting itself by acute symptoms of sufficient severity (including severe pain, psychiatric disturbances and/or symptoms of substance abuse) such that the absence of immediate medical attention could reasonably be expected to result in: • Placing the health of the individual (or unborn child) in serious jeopardy • Serious impairment to bodily functions • Serious dysfunction of any bodily organ or part With respect to a pregnant woman who is having contractions: • That there is inadequate time to affect a safe transfer to another hospital before delivery; or • That transfer may pose a threat to the health or safety of the woman or the unborn child IMPORTANT NOTE: In emergency situations, our care teams can provide medically necessary interventions to protect pregnant patients experiencing a miscarriage or facing serious life-threatening conditions. This includes medically necessary interventions that may indirectly result in a pregnancy termination. Safe, high-quality and compassionate care for all patients are our top priorities. However, Providence does not provide elective abortions solely for the purpose of ending the life of a fetus or embryo. Transfer of Unstabilized Patient with EMC Documentation is critical! There are only two instances where an unstabilized patient may be transferred to another facility: • The hospital lacks capability to stabilize the patient, and a physician (or QMP) certifies that the benefits outweigh the risks. • The patient or their representative insists on transfer after being informed of the risks and hospital obligations under EMTALA. Appropriate transfer requirements: • Receiving hospital agrees to accept the transfer. • Transferring hospital provides stabilizing treatment within its capability. • Transfer uses qualified personnel and proper equipment. • Medical records related to the emergency condition must be sent to the receiving hospital if the patient refuses proper equipment. NOTE: If the patient refuses to transfer with proper equipment (e.g. ambulance), the transferring hospital sends all medical records related to the emergency condition to the receiving hospital. Transfer documentation/certification must be completed: • EPIC Resource: EMTALA Form can be found in EPIC. • If the QMP signs the transfer certification it must be done after consultation with a physician who agrees with the transfer and the physician must subsequently countersign the certification in the timeframe established to hospital policies and procedures. Provider Education Training Manual 22 |