Under EMTALA, what is the primary obligation of Medicare participating hospitals regarding patients who arrive at the emergency department?

The primary obligation of Medicare participating hospitals under the Emergency Medical Treatment and Labor Act (EMTALA) is to provide a medical screening examination to any individual who comes to the emergency department, regardless of their insurance status or ability to pay. This requirement ensures that all patients receive an assessment to determine whether they have an emergency medical condition.

By mandating that hospitals conduct a medical screening exam, EMTALA aims to protect individuals from being turned away or receiving inadequate care based solely on their financial situation. This provision is critical in emergency settings where timely evaluation can be life-saving.

The other options do not capture the essence of EMTALA’s requirements. While treating all patients regardless of nationality aligns with the intent of the law, it is not the specific obligation outlined under EMTALA. Ensuring no overflow is not explicitly mandated by EMTALA; rather, the focus is on the screening and stabilization of individuals with emergency conditions. Referring patients to specialty care immediately does not reflect the hospital's initial obligations under EMTALA, as the act centers around the initial assessment and stabilization rather than immediate referrals.