Section 2. Definitions.
The following words and phrases when used in this act shall have the meanings given to them in this section unless the context clearly indicates otherwise:
"Comprehensive emergency services." The capacity of a hospital emergency department to maintain staff and provide immediate and advanced care for all patients who require trauma care treatment 24 hours per day and seven days per week based on the availability of the following services:
(1) At least two qualified physicians to staff the emergency department during periods of peak utilization.
(2) At least one registered nurse or technician with specialized training in advanced life support techniques.
(3) Anesthesia services at all times.
(4) Physician specialists who can immediately consult by telephone or radio and can report immediately to the hospital emergency department as needed.
(5) Ancillary services, such as laboratory, radiology, pharmacy and respiratory therapy, at all times, with appropriate personnel who can report immediately to the hospital emergency department as needed.
"Department." The Department of Public Welfare of the Commonwealth.
"Foundation." The Pennsylvania Trauma Systems Foundation as defined in section 3 of the act of July 3, 1985 (P.L.164, No.45), known as the Emergency Medical Services Act.
"Hospital." An entity located in this Commonwealth that is licensed as a hospital under the act of July 19, 1979 (P.L.130, No.48), known as the Health Care Facilities Act.
"Secretary." The Secretary of Public Welfare of the Commonwealth.
"Trauma care." Medical services provided to an individual with a severe, life-threatening injury which is likely to produce mortality or permanent disability.
"Trauma center." A hospital accredited as a Level I, Level II or Level III trauma center by the Pennsylvania Trauma System Foundation in accordance with this act and section 6 of the act of July 3, 1985 (P.L.164, No.45), known as the Emergency Medical Services Act.
Compiler's Note: The Department of Public Welfare, referred to in this section, was redesignated as the Department of Human Services by Act 132 of 2014.
The Secretary of Public Welfare, referred to in this section, was redesignated as the Secretary of Human Services by Act 132 of 2014.