How can a hospital fulfill its on-call coverage obligations according to HHS?

The correct answer is established through the context of compliance with healthcare regulations regarding on-call coverage. A hospital can fulfill its on-call coverage obligations by establishing a community call program, which involves coordinating with other healthcare providers in the area. This collaborative approach ensures that all necessary specialties are available to respond to emergency situations, thereby meeting the requirements set forth by the Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) for patient access to necessary medical services.

This method also takes into account the availability of required specialists without overburdening individual providers and helps create a sustainable system for emergency care, addressing both legal compliance and community health needs. By working together, hospitals and local physicians can ensure adequate coverage that aligns with HHS regulations and improves overall patient care.

The other options may seem viable but do not directly address the multifaceted requirements of on-call obligations. Hiring more physicians, for instance, may provide additional coverage but does not necessarily ensure that there will be a coordinated effort that benefits the broader community. Outsourcing to a third-party provider could potentially lead to gaps in local knowledge and continuity of care, which can adversely affect patient outcomes. Limiting ER visits does not solve the underlying issue of ensuring that there are qualified medical personnel available when needed, potentially compromising patient access