HospitalInspections.org

Based on interview with staff and document review, the facility physician failed to perform a medical screening exam for patient #1 to determine if a medical emergency existed.

Findings:

1. Patient #1 presented to Falls Community Hospital emergency department July 2, 2022 with complaints of contractions. Patient #1 was approximately nine months pregnant.

2. During an interview on 8/30/2022 at 1000, staff #1 stated, "The registration clerk was checking the patient [patient #1] in when the physician came to the triage desk and told the patient that we [Falls Community Hospital] did not have obstetric services or capabilities. The nursing staff informed the physician that we could test her for the presence of amniotic fluid. However, the physician adamantly recommended the patient drive to a Waco hospital . "

3. Nearest Waco hospital is approximately 30 miles from Fall Community Hospital.

4. The patient eventually left without being seen.