The ER Utilization Program seeks to downcode and therefore markedly reduce reimbursement on many life threatening conditions, such as Diabetic Ketoacidosis and Severe Asthma Exacerbations.  As Emergency Medicine providers, we are always ready to provide care to ANY person who presents to the Emergency Department, for any condition.  We cannot determine who presents to the ED, and to downcode legitimate LIFE THREATENING problems makes no sense.  Under the Prudent Layperson law, this Act would potentially go against it, and cost the hospital and doctors large amounts of money, possibly causing staffing shortages and longer wait times for all patients in the Commonwealth.  

As Emergency Medicine Physicians, we will always be there to take care of all patients, and often those patients who don't have access to all facets of healthcare present to the ED for basic as well as life threatening care.  Please don't penalize the hospitals and providers who take care of all patients.