@shacquie What medical insurance does your mom have? if Medicare, is it the regular Medicare or Medicare Advantage? I ask because Mayo in Phoenix does not take Medicare Advantage but yes to the regular Medicare. Whether she has coverage that Mayo takes or not is essential to know before you bring her over to the ER - which BTW I think is a very good idea - IF she is covered. I had my liver transplant 27 years ago, due to damage from HCV but treatment was not available yet - however I was treated in 2014 for HCV and remain cured of it. Ascites is not uncommon with advanced liver disease, most of us have had it. Keep asking questions, you are at a crossroad right now and need to make some important decisions. Mayo in Phoenix is a full hospital that can do any testing or procedure necessary.