The ER is not your doctor

The Emergency Department will care for everyone who walks through the doors, regardless of ability to pay or presenting problem. However, it is important to realize the mission of the ED is to provide emergency care. This means that once life threats are ruled out, patients will often be referred to outpatient followup, whether that be their primary care provider or another specialist. This video was prompted by a video I saw where a patient had somewhat different expectations. I did not share the video nor identify her as I do not want to shame her. Rather, this is an opportunity to remind patients that with busy EDs everywhere, emergency is the primary mission.