Patient dumping.

Transfer of patients from one hospital to another for economic reasons or so-called "patient dumping" is discussed. An estimated 250,000 persons per year may be affected. Patient dumping may be associated with increased morbidity as well as mortality. Federal legislation, including the Hill-Burton Act and an amendment to the Consolidated Omnibus Budget Reconciliation Act of 1985, has been enacted pertaining to emergency care for the poor. The efficacy of these laws, however, has been debated. Tough questions remain regarding viable ways to finance health care for the poor.