In the United States, emergency medical services cannot be denied to an uninsured person based on their inability to pay. This is due to the Emergency Medical Treatment and Labor Act (EMTALA), a federal law enacted in 1986, which requires hospitals that participate in Medicare (most hospitals do) and have emergency departments to provide necessary medical evaluation and treatment to anyone, regardless of their ability to pay or their insurance status.
Under EMTALA, if a person presents to an emergency department with an emergency medical condition, the hospital is obligated to provide a medical screening examination to determine if an emergency medical condition exists. If it does, the hospital must stabilize the patient's condition or transfer them to another facility capable of providing appropriate treatment, regardless of the individual's insurance coverage or ability to pay.
It's important to note that while emergency medical services are guaranteed under EMTALA, non-emergency medical services and treatments may not be provided without payment or insurance coverage. Non-emergency services may include routine check-ups, elective procedures, or treatments that can be scheduled in advance.
For individuals without insurance who require non-emergency medical care, some hospitals and healthcare facilities may offer financial assistance programs or sliding-scale fees based on income to help make medical services more affordable. Additionally, community health centers and charitable organizations often provide medical services on a sliding scale or offer assistance programs for those without insurance.
Nevertheless, it is essential for individuals to explore their options for obtaining health insurance coverage through government programs, employer-sponsored plans, or private insurance to ensure access to comprehensive medical care and avoid potential financial burdens associated with unexpected medical expenses.