Which statement about patient rights is correct?

• A. A patient has the right to impartial access to medical treatment regardless of race, national origin, religion, handicap, or source of payment.
• B. Hospitals may refuse emergency treatment based on religion
• C. Patients can demand any physician regardless of licensure
• D. Emergency treatment can be delayed to verify funding

Answer: (A)

Non-discrimination in access to emergency care is the central idea. Patients have the right to impartial access to medical treatment regardless of race, national origin, religion, disability, or source of payment. This reflects federal protections and EMTALA requirements that an emergency department must provide a medical screening and stabilizing treatment to anyone in need, without considering payment ability or demographic factors.

Hospitals may not refuse emergency treatment based on religion, and patients cannot demand a physician who is not licensed. Emergency care also cannot be delayed to verify funding, since timely stabilization is required regardless of payment. This ensures everyone receives urgent medical attention when needed.