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Based on observation, interview, and record review, the facility failed to post written notice or signage informing patients of their right to receive a medical screening examination, stabilizing treatment and an appropriate transfer, regardless of their ability to pay, in the Ambulance Entrance of the Emergency Department (ED, the department of a hospital that provides immediate treatment for acute illnesses and trauma).

This deficient practice had the potential for patients who arrive to the ED via ambulance, not knowing their rights when they visit the ED seeking treatment for a medical condition.

Findings:

During an observation on 12/16/2024 at 3:06 p.m. in the Emergency Department (ED), no signage informing patients of their right to a medical screening, stabilizing treatment ...regardless of their ability to pay, was posted in the ambulance entrance or in the hallway, where patients, who are brought by ambulance wait to be seen by a physician.

Concurrently, on 12/16/2024 at 3:06 p.m., the Director of the Emergency Department (DED) verified that the signage, informing patients of their rights to be seen regardless of their ability to pay, was not posted in the Ambulance Entrance or in the hallway where patients, who arrive by ambulance, wait to be examined. The DED stated patients who arrive by ambulance can wait in the hallway, near the ambulance entrance, or are taken directly to a room, in which case, the patients would be unable to see the signage. The patients could only see the signage if the patients wait in the waiting area of the Main Entrance.

Concurrently, on 12/16/2024 at 3:06 p.m., the Clinical Practice Leader (CPL) stated that most patients arriving by ambulance are taken directly to a room or wait in the hallway, next to the ambulance entrance and would not be able to visualize any sign. The CPL also verified there was no signage posted in the Ambulance Entrance and adjacent hallway, used as a waiting area for patients who arrive by ambulance.

During an interview on 12/18/2024 at 2:22 p.m., Manager of Accreditation (MOA) reviewed the facility ' s policy regarding EMTALA and stated that the signage should be visible to all patients entering the emergency department, both through the Main Entrance and the Ambulance Entrance, to ensure that patients were aware of their rights to receive care regardless of payment.

During a review of the facility ' s policy and procedure (P&P) titled, "EMTALA (Screening, Stablization, and Management of Emergency Transfers)," dated 3/12/2024, the P&P indicated the following: Signage means the signs posted by the Hospital in its Dedicated Emergency Department(s) and in a place or places likely to be noticed by all individuals entering the Dedicated Emergency Department(s) (including waiting room, admitting area, entrance and treatment areas), that inform individuals of their rights under EMTALA.