Freestanding ERs and urgent care centers having identity crisis

Distinction may be costing patients money


Freestanding emergency centers are getting complaints about large, hidden costs for the treatment of problems ranging from minor injuries to colds, according to an article on the D CEO website.

Independently owned urgent care or freestanding emergency centers in general are able to “bait and switch consumers,” one patient alleged. “People are coming in for urgent care—it’s not our goal to go to the ER. 

“The transparency of what is and what isn’t considered an ‘emergent’ service determines the price point. There should be a list of services that is distinctly offered, so people are aware. But that list doesn’t exist.”

With a highly profitable business model, freestanding ERs are proliferating in Texas, according to the article.

Read the article. 

 



July 11, 2017


Topic Area: Industry News


Recent Posts

Building Envelope Design: Beyond Energy Efficiency

An integrated approach to envelope design can create more comfortable and energy-efficient hospitals.


Outpatient Surge Reshapes Long-Term Strategy for Medical Outpatient Buildings

Demographic tailwinds, policy uncertainty and shifting care models are pushing health systems to rethink how and where they invest in outpatient facilities.


Mercy Medical Center to Be Integrated into Baystate Health

Until the transition is complete and receives all regulatory approvals, Mercy Medical Center and Baystate Health will continue to operate independently.


Managing IAQ in Healthcare Facilities During Wildfires

Wildfires are becoming more prevalent across the country. Facilities must be prepared to handle their effects on air quality. 


Building Hospital Resilience in an Era of Extreme Weather

Expert Jennifer Mahan discusses the vulnerabilities healthcare facilities face during disasters and the infrastructure strategies that keep operations running.


 
 


FREE Newsletter Signup Form

News & Updates | Webcast Alerts
Building Technologies | & More!

 
 
 


All fields are required. This site is protected by reCAPTCHA and the Google Privacy Policy and Terms of Service apply.

 
 
 
 

Healthcare Facilities Today membership includes free email newsletters from our facility-industry brands.

Facebook   Twitter   LinkedIn   Posts

Copyright © 2023 TradePress. All rights reserved.