Document Type
Policy Brief
Publication Date
4-2024
Keywords
MRHRC, Access, Emergency Department, rural, health policy, hospitals
Abstract
This study, conducted by researchers at the Maine Rural Health Research Center, provides updated information and addresses gaps in knowledge about rural non-urgent ED use. Understanding the rates of non-urgent ED use among rural adults and the factors associated with this use can inform policy and practice efforts to reduce unnecessary and inappropriate use of EDs in rural communities.
Hospital emergency departments (EDs) serve a vital role in the US health care system, providing lifesaving, around-the-clock care to patients in acute health situations. However, use of the ED for non-urgent care is costly and reflects a suboptimal care setting, with estimates of over $32 billion annually attributed to avoidable ED costs. Studies show that compared to urban residents, people living in rural areas increasingly use the ED at higher rates. This study provides updated information and addresses gaps in knowledge about rural non-urgent ED use. Understanding the rates of non-urgent ED use among rural adults and the factors associated with this use can inform policy and practice efforts to reduce inappropriate use of EDs in rural communities.
Using the data from the Medical Expenditure Panel Survey (MEPS), the authors examined differences in non-urgent ED use between rural and urban adults aged 18 to 64 to determine the percentage of non-urgent visits to the ED and what socioeconomic and health care access factors are associated with non-urgent ED use among rural residents.
Findings showed that rural adults aged 18 to 64 are more likely than their urban counterparts to visit the emergency department in a given year (16% versus 13%). Socio-demographic characteristics associated with higher rates of non-urgent ED use by rural residents include younger age, fair or poor mental and physical health, low income, public insurance coverage, and lower access to primary care.
For more information on this study, please contact Erika Ziller or Yvonne Jonk
Funding Organization
HRSA-Federal Office of Rural Health Policy
Grant Number
Grant #CAU1CRH03716
Recommended Citation
Ziller E, Milkowski C, Croll Z, Jonk Y. Non-urgent use of emergency departments by rural and urban adults. University of Southern Maine, Muskie School, Maine Rural Health Research Center;2024. PB-81.
