The purpose of the ED is to make sure you’re not actively dying and then refer you to a specialist who books three months out.
There is a huge gap in American medicine between the ED and the doctor’s office. You might spend weeks or months in severe pain or discomfort waiting to be seen by someone who can treat you. The ED docs are just there to stabilize you and send you on your way.
I agree. But hours wait time to take vitals and then give fluids/meds to provide relief?
I don’t recall the specifics but it’s usually “severe” chest or stomach pain. I’m the default in my family to grab someone at any hour to run them to the ER.
Edit: I’m talking 5~7 hours usually for late night ER visits in a major US city.
The purpose of the ED is to make sure you’re not actively dying and then refer you to a specialist who books three months out.
There is a huge gap in American medicine between the ED and the doctor’s office. You might spend weeks or months in severe pain or discomfort waiting to be seen by someone who can treat you. The ED docs are just there to stabilize you and send you on your way.
I agree. But hours wait time to take vitals and then give fluids/meds to provide relief?
I don’t recall the specifics but it’s usually “severe” chest or stomach pain. I’m the default in my family to grab someone at any hour to run them to the ER.
Edit: I’m talking 5~7 hours usually for late night ER visits in a major US city.