HospitalInspections.org

Based on observation and interview , the facility failed to post conspicuously the required signage (per section 1867 of the Social Security Act) specifying the rights of individuals with respect to examination and treatment for emergency medical conditions (EMC) and women in labor and whether or not the hospital participated in the Medicaid program under a State plan (under Title XIX). The hospital failed to :

*Post signage in a manner that was noticeable and visible to individuals waiting for emergency room (ER) examination and treatment (waiting room and 4 potential registration areas) .

Findings included:

During the tour of the ER on 11/21/2024 between 9:40 AM and 10:30 AM with Staff-ID-F , ER/RN observation in the waiting room showed EMTALA signage posted on a bulletin board behind am opened door. The signage was posted high on the board and was not currently visible to anyone waiting in this room.

During an interview at this same time, Staff ID-F said that patients could be registered in the Triage Room or any of the 3 ER Rooms.

Observation of the Triage Room and the three (3) ER rooms failed to show posting of any required EMTALA signage.

The above findings were verified by Staff ID-F, RN.

Based on interview and record review, the facility failed to clearly state who was determined as a Qualified Medical Practitioner designated to perform medical screening exams in the ER.

Findings included:

During an interview on 11/21/2024 at 10:15 AM with Staff ID - E, he said he was a nurse practitioner (NP) and performed the medical screening exams in the ER.

Review of the credential file of Staff ID-E, NP, failed to show an approved delineated privilege to perform medical screening exams in the ER.

Review of facility policy titled "Medical Screening Examination," last revised date 07/2023, showed "The medical screening exam will be provided by the Emergency Department Provider." The policy did not define who the ED providers were [MD, PA, NP, etc..) or clearly state they were they the designated Qualified Medical Professionals (QMP) to perform medical screening exams in the ER.

Review of facility policy titled "ER Provider Coverage PCMC," last revised 01/2023, showed "All patients presenting to the Emergency room will be given a medical screen by the Emergency Room Provider ..." The policy did not define who the providers were [MD, PA, NP, etc..) or clearly state they were the designated Qualified Medical Professionals (QMP) to perform medical screening exams in the ER.

Review of the facility "Bylaws and Rules and Regulations, approved 01/28, 2020, failed to show any documentation to show who were the QMPs designated to perform medical screening exams in the ER.

On 11/21/2024 at 1:15 PM, the above information was discussed and verified by Staff -B, Director of Nurses.