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The Emergency Medical Treatment & Labor Act (EMTALA) was enacted by Congress to ensure public access to emergency services regardless of ability to pay. Under EMTALA, all Medicare-participating hospitals are required to examine anyone requesting emergency services regardless of their ability to pay or method of payment. A hospital also must attempt to stabilize the patient by examining or treating them within the hospital's capabilities or must transfer the patient to an appropriate hospital for treatment.
At the request of a federal review officer, WVMI performs a five-day review to determine compliance with EMTALA. Our medical professionals determine if a patient was adequately screened, examined and treated.
If the Office of Inspector General (OIG) discovers an EMTALA violation, WVMI is required to conduct a second, 60-day review. After that review is complete, the OIG can impose a fine or exclude a provider or practitioner from Medicare.