Freestanding emergency departments (FSEDs) are gaining popularity, according to an article on the Medical Construction & Design website. In some states, the number of freestanding emergency departments is increasing rapidly, as care patterns shift from acute care.
FSEDs represent a growing alternative to traditional hospital-based EDs, providing care in more convenient, easy-to-access locations and consumer-oriented environments.
Longer waiting times at traditional hospital-based EDs leave patients seeking more accessible and convenient ED options. FSEDs offer greater access to care for non-life threatening conditions with generally less waiting times.
Urgent care centers also offer convenient, quick options for a low-acuity health issue. Compared to FSEDs, urgent care centers are usually lower in cost, due to the lower staffing levels and lower levels of technology.