The Center for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) has reported that the number of Emergency Room visits each year have soared to over 129 million. Of those visits, only 13% resulted in admission. It is estimated that up to two-thirds of Emergency Room visits are avoidable.
Of the 72% of patients with insurance, 24% did not require immediate attention and 42% received medical care that could have been provided by a walk in urgent care center like Emergency One. The second highest population to visit the emergency room after children under four years-old, is the 20-29 year-olds who went mostly for conditions that did not require an emergency room. Clearly, we must do a better job of informing this emerging age group in the alternatives to hospital emergency rooms.
Not only does this put a burden on the healthcare system, it also creates an unnecessary financial strain for the patient. When you have a non-emergent problem, think about alternatives to the emergency room. At Emergency One, typically, we can see you faster and cheaper than the hospital. If you are experiencing a problem and you are not sure of where to seek treatment, call us at 845.338.5600 and we’ll be happy to discuss your situation and your options.