What Is An Emergency? 

The main function of the Emergency Department (ED) is to treat patients who are suffering from an acute serious illness or injury that would lead to severe complications if not treated.  The ED is not designed to provide routine medical care.  Patients requiring urgent attention will always be seen first.  Treatment in the ED is based on clinical need, not financial situations or whether you have health insurance.                                                                                                  

Most Emergency Departments are very busy, and treat thousands of patients each year.  Patients are treated in order of medical emergency, not necessarily in order of arrival.  To ensure the sickest patients are seen first, a sorting mechanism called triage is used to categorize patients. 

Non-emergency conditions are best treated by your Primary Care Manager (PCM).  Advantages of seeing your PCM:

· You are more likely to see the same doctor each time
· You usually will not have to wait
· It frees up the Emergency Department to treat emergencies

 IF YOU FEEL YOUR CONDITION IS WORSENING, PLEASE CONTACT THE TRIAGE NURSE TO BE REEVALUATED.

Concerns, Compliments, or Complaints?

Patient Concerns, compliments, or complaints may be directed to the Customer Service Division at 907– 8069 located on the first floor in the Patient Services Hall.