Patient Perceptions of the Emergency Department: Factors that Lead to Overcrowding

Summary:

Emergency department (ED) usage has been rising steadily, with overcrowding becoming a significant problem in providing patients with quality healthcare. The purpose of this study was to determine the factors that influence patient usage of the ED.

Abstract:

Emergency department (ED) usage has been rising steadily, with overcrowding becoming a significant problem in providing patients with quality healthcare. Unfortunately, many people are not aware of appropriate use of the ED. The purpose of this study was to determine the factors that influence patient usage of the ED. The study was conducted using a survey to gather demographics, self-reported urgency rating, severity of condition, and factors influencing patients to come to the ED. Surveys showed that 56% of participants rated their condition an 8 or higher in urgency. Fifty-eight percent stated that they did not have a primary care provider, and 34% believed they could have been seen at a clinic. Many participants are presenting to the ED because they are overestimating the urgency of their condition, do not have another provider, or desire easier access to healthcare, causing a severe overcrowding issue.