The Risks and Benefits of Leaving a Hospital Against Medical Advice
Deciding to leave a hospital against medical advice (AMA) is a significant decision that carries both risks and potential benefits. This practice can vary widely based on the circumstances, medical condition, and personal preferences of the patient. The primary consequence is that the patient likely waives the medical facility’s liability for anything that happens after they leave. However, the decision to leave early must be weighed carefully as it can expose the patient to unforeseen health risks and other potential consequences.
The Risks of Leaking Under Medical Advice (AMA)
When a patient leaves a hospital against medical advice, there are several risks involved. One of the most compelling reasons is that the patient is waiving the hospital’s liability. This means that if complications arise or a worsened condition develops after leaving the hospital, the patient may not have recourse to seek compensation.
Additionally, hospitals are required to disclose any information about the patient’s discharge to their insurance carriers. This can negatively impact the insurance coverage for the entire admission, especially if the patient’s condition is still considered unstable or requires further treatment. Insurance carriers prioritize reimbursement over patient health, which can have financial repercussions for the patient.
Cases Where Leaving Against Medical Advice Was Justified
While leaving against medical advice is generally not advisable, there are instances where such a decision can be reasonable. A patient might choose to leave if they believe they are not receiving appropriate medical care, if they feel a doctor or hospital staff is handling them poorly, or if other medical facilities offer better suitability for their situation.
A Practical Case Study
For example, a patient might decide to leave a hospital after undergoing a complex surgical procedure, if they encounter unprofessional or incompetent medical staff. In one such case, a patient named Sarah had to leave the hospital shortly after a cardiac surgery due to a series of errors made by the medical staff. The doctor, who was inexperienced, attempted to stabilize Sarah without considering the severity of her condition. Moreover, the RN involved was excessively negligent and stole items from Sarah's bag, leading to a situation of abuse and neglect.
Sarah, legally blind with the staff improperly labeling her as blind, experienced severe distress and severe ischemic changes. The physician misdiagnosed her, and the nurse denied her request for immediate cardiac evaluation. Sarah’s decision to leave the hospital early was justified due to the substandard care she was receiving. She later sought medical attention at another facility, leading to the correct diagnosis and immediate surgery.
Long-Term Psychological and Physiological Impact
Leaving a hospital against medical advice can also have significant psychological and physiological impacts on the patient. The patient may feel anxious, frustrated, or even embarrassed, which can lead to stress and emotional distress. Physiologically, the condition may worsen without the proper medical attention, leading to more severe health outcomes.
Legal and Financial Consequences
Additionally, hospitals have the power to report patients who leave against medical advice to their insurance carriers. This can lead to potential financial repercussions, including reduced or denied coverage for the entire admission. Patients must be aware of these potential risks before making the decision to leave against medical advice.
Through understanding the comprehensive risks and potential benefits, patients can make more informed decisions about their healthcare and ensure they receive the best possible care while minimizing unnecessary risks.