I told them that my patient is my primary concern and that I will take care of her to the best of my ability. I explained that I was following hospital protocol in my actions to initiate an EKG and lab work and that money had nothing to do with it. I also explained to the patient that she had the right to refuse any tests she felt were unnecessary, but that such protocols have been proven to achieve better patient outcomes. The patient agreed to both the ECG and laboratory tests, and at about that time the doctor entered the office