The Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) has introduced a new feature on CMS.gov to facilitate the filing of complaints under the Emergency Medical Treatment and Labor Act (EMTALA). This initiative is part of the Biden-Harris Administration's broader strategy to inform the public and ensure patient access to emergency medical care as mandated by federal law.
"HHS is committed to protecting access to emergency medical care for everyone in America and making sure appropriate steps are taken if they don’t get that care," stated Health and Human Services (HHS) Secretary Xavier Becerra. "We will continue to uphold the law and the right to emergency care, to inform people of their rights under EMTALA, and to make it easier for someone denied care to file a complaint."
CMS Administrator Chiquita Brooks-LaSure emphasized the importance of this new option: "If an individual believes their EMTALA rights have been violated, it is important that they can easily file a complaint. We want to make sure that everyone knows their rights and can take action to help make sure the health care system is safe for everyone."
CMS remains committed to ensuring the health and safety of millions by enforcing federal laws such as EMTALA. Under this act, hospitals participating in Medicare must provide medical screening exams for individuals arriving at emergency departments. If an emergency medical condition is identified, hospitals are required either to stabilize the patient or transfer them appropriately if stabilization is beyond their capability.
For further details, visit: https://www.cms.gov/priorities/your-patient-rights/emergency-room-rights.
