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New York State (NYS) Medicaid provides medical coverage for low-income residents of New York. If you qualify for NYS Medicaid, you must use providers within the state for your medical care. While this requirement covers your medical needs within the state of New York, it leaves you without coverage when traveling to other states. Regular check-ups and other types of non-emergency care will usually have to wait until you return to New York, unless you have prior approval from Medicaid. If you have an emergency medical problem, however, you may seek help for it without prior Medicaid approval.
The Emergency Medical Treatment and Active Labor Act governs the treatment of medical emergencies and ensures equal emergency medical treatment for all people. Even patients without the means to pay for medical treatment must be evaluated, and treated if necessary, under the EMTALA. EMTALA regulations only apply to Medicare-paid hospitals, because the law is expressed in Section 1867 of the Social Security Act.
Although most dental conditions can wait long enough for you to call your regular dentist during office hours, there are some injuries and conditions that require immediate attention. But what constitutes a genuine emergency and what should be done if you find yourself in that situation?
You never know when you will find yourself at the scene of an accident or disaster as a "first responder." Whether you've received formal training or not, there are certain steps you can follow to expedite the response and facilitate a positive outcome for the victims.
