Under what condition may a patient be transferred to another medical facility following a medical screening exam?

A patient may be transferred to another medical facility following a medical screening exam when the patient or their representative requests a transfer. This condition emphasizes the principle of patient autonomy, which is fundamental to medical ethics and healthcare delivery. Patients have the right to make informed decisions about their care, including the option to seek treatment at a different facility if they perceive it would better meet their needs.

In practice, this means that if a patient feels uncomfortable with the care provided, does not agree with the treatment plan, or simply prefers to receive care elsewhere, they can express this desire. Effective communication between the healthcare team and the patient is crucial to ensure that the request is understood and appropriately managed.

While providers may have their reasons for recommending transfers based on clinical assessments or resource availability, the patient's right to request transfer underlines their control over their healthcare journey. This respect for patient choices plays a significant role in ensuring ethical standards are upheld in medical practice.