Requires Hospitals to Screen and Stabilize Patients
Michigan · HB6443 · Introduced Oct 28, 2026
Why it matters
Patients with emergencies could get treatment without first being asked about payment. Hospitals would face new record-keeping and transfer rules, and doctors could face violations for misrepresenting patients' conditions.
What it does
- Requires hospitals to give a medical screening exam to anyone who asks for emergency care
- Bans hospitals from delaying emergency care to ask whether a patient can pay
- Requires hospitals to keep a central log of emergency care requests and outcomes
- Allows transfers only if the receiving hospital agrees and the patient or representative requests it in writing
- Bars hospitals from discharging a patient with an emergency condition until stabilized, unless the patient requests it in writing
Status
Latest action (2026-11-05): Bill Electronically Reproduced 10/28/2026
About this bill
Would require hospitals to screen and stabilize anyone seeking emergency care, including abortion when needed to stabilize a patient. Hospitals could not delay care to ask about payment.
Health facilities: hospitals; emergency medical screening and stabilizing treatment; require hospitals to provide. Amends 1978 PA 368 (MCL 333.1101 - 333.25211) by adding secs. 17028, 17528, 21528, 21528a, 21528b, 21528c & 21528d.
Perspectives
💬 The case for
Patient advocates would likely say the bill protects people from being turned away or moved before they are safe. Some would say the emergency log adds accountability.
💬 The case against
Some hospital groups would likely say the rules add paperwork and strain staff. Some religious and anti-abortion groups would likely object to the required abortion care.
Sponsored by
Sponsor details for this state bill are at the source link.
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