Left ER without being discharged

Hello everyone.

This is in CA.

I am an uninsured 20-something year old male who got his patella relocated at the ER. I am uninsured and extremely poor. I told one of the nurses and his advice was just to leave. He showed me the back exit and I just walked out. I refused the X-ray and basically just got my kneecap back on. Did not sign any forms, nor any AMA forms. Got my treatment, and the nurse gave me some wrap to wrap my kneecap to prevent inflammation but other than that I was good. I was walking again no problem, just a little sore due to the stretched ligaments.

I gave them my real name, DOB, and real address, though I am not sure the nurse who wheeled me in got my information correct because when she signed me in through the Kiosk, she input the wrong ZIP code. They didn't ask to see my ID nor SSN. This is a non-profit hospital. I tried going back roughly 30 minutes after I left because I was afraid, but after waiting for an hour, I just got up and left again.

I realize now that Non-profits have the treatment clauses and financial aid programs for poor people like me. But I was not properly discharged and just left.

I know I know I'm an idiot. This no insurance thing is not going to be forever, currently a student with a well paying internship lined up for this summer. So I will take advantage of that company's excellent health care programs then, just need to go another 3 months without accident.

Thanks in advance!

submitted by /u/Hospital-throw-away
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