What Causes Hospital Wait Times in Owings Mills?

If you have been forced to wait many hours in an emergency room, you might be curious about what causes these delays. How could a first-world nation like the United States struggle with an issue like this? What are the underlying factors that lead to delays, and how can we improve in the future? These questions may be especially important if you have suffered some kind of injury due to your excessive ER wait times in Maryland.

Loss of Government Funding 

One potential reason is the loss of government funding. One program is called Acute Hospital Care at Home – otherwise known as “Hospital at Home.” Unfortunately, federal funding for this program (and many others like it) is set to run out. It is not clear whether Congress will vote to extend the program, and this could worsen wait times within the next few years.

Understaffing 

Another problem is the lack of medical professionals in Maryland. The State is known for having the worst wait times in the entire nation, and some patients have to wait almost an entire day to see a doctor. There are not enough doctors to serve the Maryland community, plain and simple. To make matters worse, hospital beds are declining in Maryland at a worrying pace.

 Health Company Monopolies 

Another potential cause is the existence of so-called “healthcare monopolies.” After gaining complete control of healthcare in a particular area, many companies have no real incentive to provide quick service for patients. After all, there are no hospitals to compete against. In a true “free market” healthcare system, hospitals would risk losing patients (their customers) to nearby competitors. When healthcare companies establish monopolies, however, they can get away with providing a poor service. Patients cannot turn to any other alternatives.

 Americans Are Sicker Than They Used to Be 

To make matters even worse, Americans are generally sicker than they used to be. This inevitably puts greater pressure on an already strained healthcare system, causing higher wait times for everyone. Many doctors are calling for more preventative medicine – an approach that would highlight the importance of healthy lifestyle choices.

 Many Americans Visit the ER Because they Lack Insurance 

Finally, it is worth noting that many Americans visit ERs for issues that would normally be treated by a general practitioner or “family doctor.” These individuals have no choice but to visit the emergency room, as they may lack insurance. Numerous people argue that this is a primary cause of excessive wait times in Maryland.

Find an Experienced Medical Practice Lawyer in Owings Mills 

Excessive ER wait times represent an example of medical malpractice in Owings Mills. As a result, you might have the ability to file a medical malpractice lawsuit if you have experienced this firsthand. To discuss your legal options in more detail, consider a consultation with the Baltimore emergency room lawyers at Furman Honick Law. We have considerable experience with medical malpractice cases, and we can guide you toward positive outcomes. Book a consultation to discuss your options in more detail.

Sources: 

nbcnews.com/health/health-care/er-overcrowding-worsens-program-helping-ease-crisis-may-lose-funding-rcna135966

baltimoresun.com/2024/04/18/maryland-hospital-report-emergency-wait-times/