SB 196

Abstract

This legislation establishes a voluntary certification program for 24/7 Emergent Physician Care Centers and is designed to help Delawareans chose the right level of walk-in, medical care. The importance of 24/7 Physician Care Centers in the delivery of urgent and emergent health care services in times of crisis was exhibited during the recent COVID-19 Pandemic. Currently, Delawareans have no assistance in determining the varying levels of services available at urgent care facilities. This legislation creates the category of and defines the minimum level of services necessary for 24/7 Emergent Physician Care Centers. The minimum requirements for 24/7 Emergent Physician Care Centers include being open 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, having a Delaware licensed physician and registered nurse on site at all times, providing lab and diagnostic imaging services, providing on-site splinting, fracture care and suturing, and not refusing care to any person due to inability to pay or lack of identification.