EMERGENCY DEPARTMENT UTILIZATION TRENDS: AN IN-DEPTH ANALYSIS USING NAMCS

Authors : Thao Nguyen, Serdar Aydın, Yasamine Salkar

Pages : 34-47

View : 69 | Download : 58

Publication Date : 2024-06-30

Article Type : Research Paper

Abstract :This comprehensive study investigates the utilization of emergency departments (ED) in the United States from 2016 to 2021. Utilizing data sourced from the National Ambulatory Medical Care Survey (NAMCS), the research focuses on analyzing trends in ED visits. Key demographic details such as age and gender, coupled with critical factors including insurance status and diverse medical conditions prompting urgent medical care, take center stage in our examination. The primary objective is to attain a nuanced understanding of the intricacies involved in individuals\' utilization of emergency healthcare services. The study aspires to provide insights that can inform the refinement of healthcare planning, prudent resource allocation, and the formulation of effective public health policies. Fundamentally, our premise posits that the dynamics of ED utilization— encompassing the timing of visits, the demographic composition of visitors, and the nature of their medical concerns—significantly influence the operational dynamics of EDs. We contend that a comprehensive grasp of these factors has the potential to enhance operational efficiency, reduce costs, and ultimately elevate the well-being of patients navigating the complexities of emergency healthcare. Through unraveling the intricate web of ED utilization patterns, this research endeavors to yield valuable insights contributing to the creation of a healthcare system that is more responsive, efficient, and centered on the needs of patients.
Keywords : Emergency Department Utilization, National Ambulatory Medical Care Survey NAMCS, Healthcare Planning, Resource Allocation, Public Health Policies

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