OIG Enforcement Actions: EMTALA Patient Dumping Settlements · November 12, 2025 · Primary source
Spartanburg Medical Center Agreed to Pay $100,000 for Allegedly Violating Patient Dumping Statute by Inappropriately Transferring a Patient
Summary
On November 12, 2025, Spartanburg Medical Center (SMC) in South Carolina entered into a $100,000 settlement agreement with OIG resolving allegations that it violated EMTALA by inappropriately transferring a patient. OIG concluded that in May 2024, SMC's on-call vascular surgeon failed to physically evaluate a patient with a large carotid artery hematoma and active bleeding following an endarterectomy, and instead arranged transfer to the originating facility despite SMC having the capabilities to stabilize the patient. The risks of transfer included airway loss, respiratory failure, stroke, or death.
What this may mean
The $100,000 CMP resolves OIG's finding that SMC violated EMTALA's stabilization requirement by transferring a patient whose benefits of transfer did not outweigh the risks. The enforcement action highlights OIG's scrutiny of on-call specialist practices, specifically the failure of an on-call surgeon to present in person when the hospital had the capacity to provide stabilizing treatment. Hospitals that rely on telephonic-only specialist consultations before transfer face heightened EMTALA exposure under this enforcement posture.
Informational only. Not legal, medical, financial, or other professional advice. Always consult a qualified professional familiar with your specific facts before relying on any item.
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