October 25, 2022
A University of Alberta professor found a 5% increase in medical services for discharged ER patients when the department’s workload increased. Both supply and demand problems (from an aging population to hospital staff shortages) can lead to an overextended ER and result in busier doctors who can’t spend as much time with patients. On top of existing ER demands, family doctors who are stretched too thin or simply seeking a quick turnaround time on unique diagnostic tests, are adding to the problem by referring patients to the ER. The study recommends hospital managers consider the larger healthcare system when staffing ERs and that policymakers improve access to outpatient care, such as urgent care centres.
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