UPMC Shadyside Emergency Department
Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania
UPMC Shadyside Emergency Department
The Oncology Emergency Department at UPMC Shadyside’s emergency department is a distinguishing feature of this ED that saw more than 47,700 patient visits in 2024. A need for this innovative subsect was identified in 2017, when data revealed that 25 percent of ED visits were oncology related. Leadership from both the Shadyside ED and Hillman Cancer Center
collaborated to create a specialized model of care for these unique and complex patients. Geographic location, proper triage, education for the staff, provider collaboration and technology were all researched and reviewed.
collaborated to create a specialized model of care for these unique and complex patients. Geographic location, proper triage, education for the staff, provider collaboration and technology were all researched and reviewed.
In 2018, a five-bed area opened in the department’s main section and has advanced to an 11-bed section separate from main ED, providing these
patients with a comfortable environment and secluded location. There are four dedicated nurses and three advanced oncology practice providers that staff the Onc ED who are skilled in the treatment and management of the oncology patient. The Onc APPs work closely with both the ED attendings and HCC medical oncologists to bridge the gap in the care, with a goal of
decreasing admissions and overall inpatient length of stay; stabilizing emergent conditions; and providing holistic oncology care.
patients with a comfortable environment and secluded location. There are four dedicated nurses and three advanced oncology practice providers that staff the Onc ED who are skilled in the treatment and management of the oncology patient. The Onc APPs work closely with both the ED attendings and HCC medical oncologists to bridge the gap in the care, with a goal of
decreasing admissions and overall inpatient length of stay; stabilizing emergent conditions; and providing holistic oncology care.