AMA Discharges

An appropriate AMA discharge requires that the physician/np/pa has a discussion with the patient/family regarding the risks of leaving AMA and appropriate documentation of this conversation and that the patient/family expressed understanding and acceptance of the risks of leaving AMA. Additionally, we need to assure the patient that we still want to take care of them to best of our ability - providing prescriptions when appropriate, referrals, follow-up - as well as encouraging them to return if they worsen and we will be happy to take care of them. Lastly, we should not get into the billing factor or make statements such as “If you leave AMA, you’re insurance will not pay.” This is a myth that has been perpetuated, unfortunately, for years. I have found no evidence to support this myth.