Freestanding Emergency Departments (FSEDs) have become increasingly important in healthcare, especially in rural and hospital-consolidated areas. This review evaluates their impact on emergency care, focusing on patient satisfaction, the work environment for healthcare professionals, and their potential to reduce overcrowding in hospital-based emergency departments (H-EDs). It acknowledges the challenges in these areas, particularly in ensuring standardized, high-quality care. The review advocates for state-level legislation to establish uniform standards for FSEDs, incorporating criteria from the American College of Emergency Physicians (ACEP). It also addresses the need for FSEDs in underserved areas, noting their current tendency to be located in more affluent regions. Additionally, the review highlights the necessity for increased price transparency to differentiate FSEDs from other acute care options and to avoid contributing to higher healthcare costs. By addressing these issues and implementing recommended changes, FSEDs can enhance healthcare access while maintaining quality and efficiency in emergency care delivery.
Key words: Freestanding Emergency Departments; Healthcare access; Emergency care delivery; Patient satisfaction; Standardized regulations.
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