Final answer:
If a patient with a managed care contract gets admitted to the hospital for an emergency, the managed care program should be notified as soon as possible, typically within 24 to 48 hours.
Step-by-step explanation:
If a patient with a managed care contract gets admitted to the hospital for an emergency, the managed care program should be notified as soon as possible. The exact time frame for notification may vary depending on the specific requirements of the managed care program and the urgency of the situation. In general, it is advisable to notify the program within 24 to 48 hours.
Notifying the managed care program promptly is important because it ensures that the program can coordinate and approve the necessary care and services for the patient. This helps the patient receive proper coverage and avoids potential issues with insurance claims and payments.
For example, if a patient is admitted to the hospital for an emergency surgery, the hospital staff should inform the managed care program immediately or within the designated timeframe specified by the program. This allows the program to authorize the surgery and any related treatments or hospital stays required for the patient's recovery.