Transfer a Patient
Inpatient Transfer Coordination
Comprehensive physician-to-physician transfer services for seamless patient movement between healthcare facilities, ensuring appropriate placement and continuity of care.
Emergency Protocol
For life-threatening emergencies requiring immediate transfer, call 911 first, then contact MedCall for coordination and bed placement.
Transfer Coordination Centers
Western Pennsylvania
412-692-2400
24/7 Coverage
Serves Pittsburgh metropolitan area and surrounding regions
Coordinates transfers to/from external facilities throughout Western PA
Central Pennsylvania
717-988-2337
24/7 Coverage
Serves Harrisburg region and central PA
Facilitates transfers with external hospital systems across Central Pennsylvania
Information Required for Transfer
Patient Demographics
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Patient's full name and date of birth
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Current location and unit phone number
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Medical record number (if available)
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Insurance information and authorization status
Clinical Information
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Primary and admitting diagnoses
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Requested medical service(s) at receiving facility
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Most recent vital signs and clinical status
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Current medications and documented allergies
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Special requirements (isolation, ventilator support, continuous IV medications)
Physician Information
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Referring attending physician name
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Direct contact number for referring physician
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Reason for transfer and level of urgency
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Preferred receiving physician (if applicable)
Transfer Details
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Preferred timing for transfer
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Transportation requirements (ground vs. air)
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Family notification status
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Any scheduling constraints
Transfer Process
Initial Contact
Call MedCall with complete patient information and clinical requirements for transfer
Clinical Assessment
MedCall coordinates with appropriate UPMC specialists for clinical review and acceptance
Bed Coordination
Secure appropriate bed placement and coordinate with receiving medical team
Transport Arrangement
Coordinate appropriate transport method and ensure continuity of care during transfer
Medical Directors
Dr. Richard J. Wadas, MD
Medical Director, MedCall Western PA
Executive Vice Chair, Community Emergency Medicine
Dr. Rachel Sackrowitz, MD
Medical Director, MedCall Western PA
Chief Medical Officer, UPMC ICU Service Center
Dr. Ramin Yazdanfar, MD
Medical Director, MedCall Central PA
Staff Hospitalist, UPMC Pinnacle Hospitalist Services
Administrative Support
Technical Support & Operations
Email: MedCallSupport@upmc.edu
Main Office
Forbes Tower, Suite 3045
Pittsburgh, PA 15213
Emergency Situations
For life-threatening emergencies, always call 911 first before contacting MedCall for transfer coordination.