ER Wait Time
If you are experiencing a medical emergency, call 9-1-1.
The emergency department (ED) average wait time is provided as an informational service to the public. It is approximate, and based on a rolling average that is updated four times an hour and does not represent the actual current activity in the ER waiting room.
The ED wait time represents the time it takes from arrival until a patient is initially seen by a clinical professional (physician, physician assistant or advanced practice nurse). Patients are triaged upon their arrival in the ED. They are then seen by a clinical professional in an order based on their complaint, condition and the reason for their visit.
FAQs: ER Wait Time
What does the time mean?
The ER wait time is defined as the amount of time that passes from the time the patient checks in at the ER desk to the time he or she is initially seen by a physician, physician assistant or nurse practitioner. Wait times are always dependent on the severity of the illnesses and injuries of other patients also in the ER. Patients with life-threatening conditions are always treated first.
Does posting the wait times affect how patients are prioritized?
Although the goal is to see each patient quickly, patients with life-threatening conditions are always treated first.
How does the ER maintain quality care if speed is the priority?
Quality care always comes first. Our ER process focuses on getting patients into rooms and seen by a clinical professional as quickly as possible for diagnosis and treatment after appropriate triage.
Is posting the wait times really necessary for an emergency room?
In many emergency rooms across the country, wait times have been increasing. LHN wants to assure patients that it is dedicated to not only offering quality care but also providing that care as efficiently as possible.
All emergency department patients receive a medical screening exam regardless of their ability to pay.