HospitalInspections.org

Based on review of hospital documents and medical records, the facility failed to meet the certification of transfer requirement when patients are transferred to higher level of care in 10 (ED1, ED 2, ED3, ED4, ED5, ED7, ED8, ED9, ED12, ED13) of 13 medical records reviewed.

Findings:

Review of the facility's EMTALA policy revised on 01/17 showed, "A physician (within the meaning of S1861(r)(1) of the Act) has signed a certification that based upon the information available at the time of transfer, the medical benefits reasonably expected from the provision of appropriate medical treatment at another medical facility outweigh the increased risks to the individual or in the case of a woman in labor, to the unborn child, from being transferred. The certification must contain a summary of the risks and benefits upon which it is based." Further, it requires that "The provider must document the reason(s) for transfer."

In 10 (ED1, ED 2, ED3, ED4, ED5, ED7, ED8, ED9, ED12, ED13) of 13 medical records reviewed, the Certification of Transfer documentation failed to include the summary of the risks and benefits based on the medical condition of the patient during transfer.

Review of medical record ED4 showed that the Certification of Transfer was signed by a midlevel practitioner, not a physician.