Was it an accident or a crime? Requirements to report injuries

Healthcare providers, especially hospitals and clinics, routinely deal with injuries—but what is reportable? What is not? If a patient comes in with a facial laceration because he hit a deer, that doesn't need to be reported. If someone was punched, however, that might require a report. It depends on the circumstances.

Reporting requirements under Iowa law

Reporting the treatment of wounds and other injuries falls under Iowa Code 147.11. Licensed providers are required to report a person suffering a gunshot or stab wound or another serious injury that appears to have been received in connection with the commission of a criminal offense or a motor vehicle accident. Serious injury is defined as disabling mental illness or bodily injury that:

• Creates a substantial risk of death;
• Causes serious permanent disfigurement; or
• Leads to protracted loss or impairment of the function of a bodily member or organ.

It also encompasses any injury to a child that requires surgical repair and general anesthesia. Many fractures in children younger than four years old are considered to be serious as well.

Providers must file the report with local law enforcement “at once” but no later than 12 hours after the incident. This accounts for someone who might be in surgery or treatment for some time before a report can be made. As mandatory reporters, providers have other reporting obligations to the Iowa Department of Inspections and Appeals if the injured is a child or dependent adult.