Implementing Fast-track Care in a Community Hospital Emergency Department: A Needs Assessment

Overcrowding in emergency departments (EDs) is a widespread issue affecting healthcare facilities worldwide, compromising both efficiency and patient care. Fast-Track Care efficiently meets the needs of low-acuity patients, thereby alleviating congestion and optimizing resources for more critical cases. Local Problem: The Riverton Hospital ED, with an annual patient census of 37,000, faces challenges of overcrowding and prolonged patient wait times, leading to concerns regarding quality of care and resource allocation. Methods: A comprehensive needs assessment was conducted within the Riverton Hospital ED, involving a multidisciplinary team of stakeholders. The assessment included benchmarking studies, a cost-benefit analysis, and stakeholder satisfaction assessments. Key interventions included identifying stakeholders, analyzing ED patient census data, benchmarking existing programs, conducting a SWOT analysis, and developing a strategic plan. Data collection methods included retrospective data review, benchmarking, surveys, and interviews, with analyses employing descriptive statistics and content analysis. Results: The assessment revealed an 18.5% increase in patient census from 2019 to 2023, with a rise in median length of stay and patients leaving without treatment. Stakeholder pre-survey results identified overcrowding as a primary concern while demonstrating positive perceptions of Fast-Track Care. Benchmarking studies identified strengths and challenges, providing valuable insights for strategic planning. SWOT analysis identified internal strengths and weaknesses, external opportunities, and threats, while the cost-benefit analysis indicated potential savings and benefits from implementing Fast-Track Care. Conclusion: Implementation of Fast-Track Care shows potential for alleviating overcrowding and improving patient care in the Riverton Hospital ED. Stakeholder engagement, data-driven decision-making, and strategic planning are essential to achieving sustainable improvements in ED operations and patient outcomes.