HospitalInspections.org

Based on document review, the facility failed to provide Medical Screening Examinations in a non-discriminatory manner. Patients with VA benefits are all seen in the ER by a physician. These patients cannot be seen by Qualified Medical Personnel (QMP) to determine if a emergent or non-emergent condition exists. The facility encourages a practice and provide the exclusionary question to be asked of all patients that would reveal the patient's pay source or the patient's inability to pay as part of the Medical Screening. Exclusionary Criteria Question; Does the patient have VA benefits?

A review of the document titled "Medical Screening Exam Policy" (MSE) revealed:
Policy Statement: ...The MSE must be the same MSE that would be performed on any individual coming to the Emergency Department, regardless of the individual's ability to pay. No information regarding the patient's payer status, HMO/PPO membership, or insurance shall be asked prior to the completion of the MSE.
VI. Exclusionary Criteria Questions: 7. Does the patient have VA benefits? This question is asked of patients by QMP. If the patient has VA benefits this patient is admitted to the ER and seen by a physician.