Mr Smith Goes to the Emergency Room at Northpark Hospital

Mr. Smith goes to the emergency room at Northpark Hospital complaining of chest pain. He states that he does not have health insurance and does not have the money to immediately pay for treatment. According to EMTALA, the hospital must _______________________.

A) refuse to treat Mr. Smith if the ER physician is not willing to admit him to the hospital for full treatment
B) explain all billing practices including collection agency policies before Mr. Smith can be treated
C) screen and stabilize Mr. Smith before attempting to transfer him to another facility
D) contact CMS to verify that Mr. Smith qualifies for public assistance