Can I continue the treatment at another hospital?
May 14, 2024 | 50,00 EUR | answered by Thomas Eiserfelder
Dear medical lawyer,
I am contacting you because I am unsure whether I can continue the treatment in another hospital. My current situation is as follows: Two weeks ago, I was treated at Hospital A for acute abdominal pain and suspected appendicitis. The doctors there eventually determined that it was a gastrointestinal infection and performed surgery. Since then, I have been in the recovery phase and am supposed to stay in the hospital for a few more days.
However, I have concerns regarding further treatment. I feel that the care at Hospital A is not optimal and I lack trust in the medical staff. I do not feel adequately informed and cared for, and I have the need to continue the treatment in another hospital.
My concerns mainly revolve around not being sure if I am receiving the best possible medical care and if the previous diagnosis and treatment were correct. Additionally, I am worried about whether it is possible to switch hospitals and if there could be legal consequences.
Therefore, my question to you is: Can I continue the treatment in another hospital? What options do I have in this situation and what steps do I need to take? I would greatly appreciate your support and advice.
Sincerely,
Hilde Hering
Dear Mrs. Hering,
Thank you for your inquiry and your trust in my expertise in the field of medical law. It is understandable that you are concerned about your medical care and have the need to continue treatment in another hospital. I will explain to you in detail the options you have in this situation and the steps you can take.
In general, patients have the right to continue treatment in another hospital. This is usually unproblematic as long as there are medical reasons for it or if you are dissatisfied with the care in your current hospital for other reasons. It is important that you feel comfortable and trust the medical staff to ensure a successful recovery.
To continue treatment in another hospital, you should first discuss your concerns and wishes with your treating doctor in Hospital A. The situation may be resolved and misunderstandings cleared up. If you still wish to continue treatment, you can request a referral to another hospital.
It is important to consult with your treating doctor to determine if a hospital transfer is medically justifiable and if there could be legal consequences. However, such a transfer should generally be possible without any issues, especially when it concerns your well-being and recovery.
It is also advisable to contact your health insurance company in a timely manner to clarify the coverage for treatment in the other hospital. Generally, the costs are covered by the health insurance company if there are medical reasons for the transfer.
Lastly, I would like to emphasize the importance of feeling comfortable in your treatment situation and trusting the medical staff. If you are still unsure or have legal questions, I am available to assist you in resolving your matter.
Sincerely,
Thomas Eiserfelder
Medical Law Attorney
