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Pilot study of ER utilization at Tulsa hospitals
Natalie J Ehrlich1, Farzana Tasmin, Haytham Safi
1University of Oklahoma-Tulsa College of Public Health, Health Administration and Policy, 74135, USA. Natalie-Ehrlich@ouhsc.edu
The Journal of the Oklahoma State Medical Association
|April 6, 2004
Summary
A pilot study found that most emergency room (ER) visits by uninsured or underinsured individuals in Tulsa were non-urgent. The findings support the need for a 24/7 primary care clinic as an alternative to the ER.
Area of Science:
- Health Services Research
- Public Health
- Healthcare Access
Background:
- The Tulsa Community Access Program (TCAP) aims to address healthcare needs for uninsured/underinsured populations.
- A key objective is establishing a 24/7 Care Center to improve access.
Purpose of the Study:
- To assess patient demographics and emergency room (ER) utilization patterns.
- To determine the need and potential use of a 24/7 clinic as an alternative to ER services.
Main Methods:
- A survey of 200 ER clients at Hillcrest Medical Center, Tulsa, was conducted over four peak usage periods.
- The survey included 45 questions assessing demographics, prior ER use, and healthcare preferences.
- Acuity of care was verified by hospital professionals.
Main Results:
- 89% of ER cases were non-urgent/non-emergency.
- 56% of participants had used the ER 1-2 times in the prior year.
- 76.5% expressed a preference for an after-hours primary care clinic.
Conclusions:
- The study highlights significant non-urgent ER utilization among the uninsured and underinsured.
- There is a clear demand for a 24/7 primary care clinic to serve this population.
- The findings provide crucial data for developing accessible healthcare alternatives.