How Do I Provide Emergency Care Under the Federal EMTALA Law?

The Emergency Medical Treatment and Active Labor Act governs the treatment of medical emergencies and ensures equal emergency medical treatment for all people. Even patients without the means to pay for medical treatment must be evaluated, and treated if necessary, under the EMTALA. EMTALA regulations only apply to Medicare-paid hospitals, because the law is expressed in Section 1867 of the Social Security Act.

Instructions

• 1

  Complete a medical screening examination consistent with the symptoms expressed by the patient. Determine the severity of his emergency and begin to formulate treatment options. This is mandatory under EMTALA for all patients who request an examination, including patients with altered mental states, illness, injury or active labor.

• 2

  Take the necessary actions to stabilize the patient according to his medical needs. Treat all conditions present until the patient is unlikely to decline further in medical status.

• 3

  Discharge, admit or transfer the patient. Once a patient is stabilized, EMTALA no longer governs his care. Transfer or admit him based on the best treatment options for his condition or his preference. Discharge him if no further in-patient medical treatment is necessary.