Despite sustained increases in patient volume and prolonged boarding, the 22-bed Emerson Health Emergency Department maintained a left without being seen rate below both state and

Emerson Health Emergency Department

national benchmarks. This performance reflects the team’s ability to adapt workflows while preserving timely access to care. Key initiatives included implementing a vertical care model and a provider-in-triage process, allowing patients to receive earlier evaluation, treatment and disposition decisions. These changes improved patient flow, reduced delays and helped ensure patients remain engaged in their care despite ongoing capacity challenges.

The department, which saw approximately 38,900 visits in 2025, achieved a significant reduction in behavioral health boarding through a focused multidisciplinary effort to improve patient flow and access to appropriate care. Strong collaboration among emergency medicine, behavioral health, nursing, case management and community partners helped expedite evaluations, streamline disposition planning and reduce unnecessary delays. These improvements enhanced patient safety and experience, increased ED capacity for incoming patients, and ensured individuals experiencing behavioral health crises received more timely, appropriate care.