How to handle emergent add-on patients

Emergent patients are those that come to you suddenly and unexpectedly with an acute sickness which, without immediate attention, could threaten their lives or result in a permanent disability. Make sure you follow these steps when admitting an emergent patient:

1. If there are any open appointment slots for urgent care, or if an on-call physician is on duty, schedule the patient as an emergent.
2. If there are no appointment slots available, ask for an urgent-care physician or an on-call provider.
3. On his or her chart, place a red sticker in the top right corner with an appropriate emergency code and circle it, so that your nurses and physicians are aware.
4. If your patient is able, collect the necessary co-pay at check-in, and then direct the patient to the trauma room if a nurse is not available to do so.

About the Author

Reed Tinsley CPA

This article is written by Reed Tinsley, a Houston, TX-based CPA with over 30 years of experience advising physicians and medical practices across Texas and the United States. Reed holds certifications as a Certified Valuation Analyst (CVA), Certified Healthcare Business Consultant (CHBC), and Certified Financial Planner (CFP), specializing exclusively in the healthcare sector. He is a published author, nationally recognized speaker, and trusted advisor to physicians on accounting & tax, practice management, and financial planning. Schedule a Free Consultation.