Policies & Procedures

A detailed brochure will be given to you upon admission to Holy Cross Hospital.

You or a family member may discuss these Rights and Responsibilities with any of our clinical compliance with the Federal Patient Self-Determination Act of 1990 and explains New Mexico Law that is related to the Act.

Emergency Medical Treatment and Labor Act

Our latest PDF on EMTALA—Screening, Stabilization, and Management of Emergency Transfers—provides comprehensive information on our policies and procedures. It’s an essential resource for understanding legal obligations and ensuring compliance when handling emergency medical conditions. Download the PDF now for vital insights into medical screening examinations, patient stabilization, and transfer protocols at Taos Health Systems.

View the EMTALA Policy >

We Care About Your Safety

  • Speak up! Don’t be afraid to ask questions if you have doubts or concerns about your treatment.
  • Keep a written record of your medications and know what medications you are taking.
  • Remind friends, family and health care providers to wash and sanitize their hands.
  • Before going for a procedure or operation, make sure you know all about it and that it is the correct one for you.
  • Understand your discharge instructions and medications before you leave.
  •  If you have safety concerns, we want to hear from you. Please reach out to our Patient Advocate.

When you are admitted to the hospital, bring your current medications:

  • Bring a list of the prescribed drugs, over-the-counter medications, home remedies, and nutritional supplements that you are currently taking and show it to the health professional(s) managing your care.
  • Bring a list of medications that you cannot take (due to allergic reactions, etc). Give the reasons why, and show it to the health professional(s) managing your care.
  • When admitted, ask how to contact the on-site Pharmacist.
  • Ask the names of the medications that you are receiving during your hospital or health-system visit.
  • Question anything about your medications that you do not understand or that does not seem right. Be especially alert to unexpected changes, such as a change in the appearance of your medication.
  • Ask your health-system pharmacist if you have any questions about the treatments or medications, you receive.
  • If you are too ill to follow these suggestions, ask a friend or relative to help.