PATIENT REFUSAL
Talk about frustration. You arrive on scene and someone in need of medical care refuses treatment AMA – “against medical advice.” Sizing up the situation, you determine the individual really needs to be transported. But legally, you cannot force them. Your best efforts to convince that person has failed.
The situation is frustrating. It’s not that you don’t care. Frequently you’re called out in the wee hours of the morning. You go, not only out of duty, but because you care. Nor is it like you’re not well prepared. You’ve studied, passed test after test, and perhaps had years of experience. Refusing treatment is risky – “this person really needs to go!”
By ignoring the problem, your fear is that the subject’s health will deteriorate. A simple issue treated now could head off a major catastrophe tomorrow. What’s more, with treatment, the patient would actually feel better. But they refuse, insisting on their own stubborn way. You shake your head and wonder.
The Bible tells us that Jesus our Savior stands at the door of your heart and knocks.
“Behold, I stand at the door and knock; if any one hears My voice and opens the door, I will come in to him…” (Revelation 3:20).
Have you opened that door, the door to your heart or are you unwisely refusing His care, ADA – against divine advice?
Pastor Fernando Villicana
Fire Service Chaplain
No information from the author.
