One in five patients who are discharged from hospital emergency departments (ED) without being admitted could just as easily have gotten the treatment they need at a family practice, according to a new report.
Data compiled by the Canadian Institute for Health Information (CIHI) helps determine which emergency room visits are avoidable and could help policymakers develop strategies to reduce these visits. Among the findings:
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Nearly half of avoidable visits are a result of just 5 conditions; colds, sore throats, ear infections, antibiotic therapies and care after surgery.
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The rate of avoidable visits was higher among patients younger than 5 (35%) and rural patients (32%)
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Elderly patients in long term care facilities are often admitted for conditions that are preventable or that could be managed with the care available in those facilities.
