HospitalInspections.org

Based on document review and interview, it was determined that the facility failed to comply with the requirements of 42 CFR 489.24 [special responsibilities of Medicare hospitals in emergency cases], specifically the failure to ensure an adequate medical screening exam was performed by a qualified medical professional as appointed in the Bylaws, See A 2406; Failure to document the risks and benefits of transferring a patient to another medical facility, See A 2409.

Based on document review and interview, it was determined that the facility failed to ensure a medical screening exam (MSE) was performed by a qualified medical professional as specified in the Hospital Bylaws. Findings include:

On 10/2/14 at approximately 1635, during review of the Hospital Bylaws, no evidence could be found of which providers were considered qualified to conduct a MSE.

On 10/2/14 at approximately 1635, during an interview with staff D, it was confirmed that the hospital bylaws did not indicate which providers were qualified to conduct a MSE.

Based on document review and interview, the facility failed to document the risks and benefits of transferring a patient to another medical facility for 3 out of 3 transfer patients (#5, #18, #20) reviewed. Findings include:

On 10/2/14 from approximately 1345 until 1630, during review of the transfer medical records #5, #18 and #20, it was revealed that the transfer documents did not list the risks and benefits of transfer.

On 10/2/14 at approximately 1630, during an interview with staff B it was confirmed that the transfer documents did not have risks and benefits listed.