Despite having a medical home, pediatric patients continue emergency department (ED) utilization for various reasons. This study examines parental reasons associated with the decision to seek ED care in a group of low-income, inner-city, publicly insured children. Surveys were conducted with parents of children (age = 0-19 years) presenting to a community-based clinic, which has an established medical home model with enhanced access. Most patients (88.3%) had a pediatrician, and nearly all (93.3%) reported a visit to the ED; most (75.7%) were aware of clinic walk-in hours, but less than half (42.6%) were aware of an after-hours phone line. There was no difference in those who were aware of walk-in hours or an after-hours phone line and a reported ED visit. Half of the parents (52.5%) thought their child’s medical problem was serious. In addition to providing enhanced efforts, medical homes should strive to make families aware of increased access.
Why Parents Use the Emergency Department Despite Having a Medical Home
