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During my intern year I learned about the fine art of "dumping". This term refers to the transfer of an uninsured patient for the sole reason that he/she is uninsured. A lot of the times the report over the phone describes a surgical problem that cannot be handled by the local surgeons for... any number of reasons. When the patient arrives, usually the only thing "wrong" with the patient is the lack of insurance. Only when we finish admitting the patient, and finish reading all of the transfer notes, do we realize that we have been "dumped" on.
My personal view on "dumping" is mixed. I feel that every patient is a learning experience, and as such I welcome any admissions/transfers. The residents don't complain at all if they get to operate. Sometimes, I get pissed because the transfer comes in just as I am trying to get out of the hospital, but otherwise if I'm already there then what does it matter?
From a professional standpoint, I think that it's bad medical practice to transfer sick patients long distances just because you know you're not going to get paid for taking care of them. Their morbidity is increased, and the overall cost of caring for the patient is increased. Also, as a physician I believe that you have a duty to help people out regardless of their ability to pay. Granted, we all have to make a living, but I find the thought of transferring a patient for financial reasons distasteful.
Finally, I was just wondering if any other residents at academic centers experience this, and if so, what are your feelings on the matter.
My personal view on "dumping" is mixed. I feel that every patient is a learning experience, and as such I welcome any admissions/transfers. The residents don't complain at all if they get to operate. Sometimes, I get pissed because the transfer comes in just as I am trying to get out of the hospital, but otherwise if I'm already there then what does it matter?
From a professional standpoint, I think that it's bad medical practice to transfer sick patients long distances just because you know you're not going to get paid for taking care of them. Their morbidity is increased, and the overall cost of caring for the patient is increased. Also, as a physician I believe that you have a duty to help people out regardless of their ability to pay. Granted, we all have to make a living, but I find the thought of transferring a patient for financial reasons distasteful.
Finally, I was just wondering if any other residents at academic centers experience this, and if so, what are your feelings on the matter.