COBRA: Implications for emergency medicine

摘要: The potential impact of COBRA is staggering and must be confronted. ultimate scope effects will take shape quickly. Federal regulations provide some the rules, but most important definitions under law develop in court. Because a lack understanding hospitals may not have been compliance with COBRA's strict terms since August 1986 only become educated on through legal process. Currently, one lawsuit has filed Chicago court system, at least physician group California paid $25,000 fine for violations. Litigation initial phase likely as continue to unaware implications legislation. EDs, emergency medical services programs, interhospital transport programs begin an immediate effort examine policies comply COBRA. Without effective educational, compliance, risk management effort, any program or hospital defendant Delays implementing requirements adversely affect health care system rather than improve it.