Management of Chronic Disease in the Emergency Department

Course overview

Emergency departments (EDs) nationwide are decreasing in number, yet the demand for their services remains high. This has led to severe overcrowding, with patients experiencing long waits for admission. EDs often serve as the primary providers for chronic conditions, including managing chronic illnesses and providing medication refills. This shift has placed a significantly strained care safety net, with EDs handling more prolonged observations, complex diagnostics, and critically ill patients. Additionally, individuals with chronic mental health issues often seek care in EDs, further exacerbating the overcrowding problem and straining ED personnel.