For a few years I received reports showing low ED visit rate compared to Group, LHIN, and Ontario. I want to figure out why but am stuck for methodology. I can't find patients who didn't go to ER, to ask, "so why didn't you go?".
Nothing is obvious: I never turn away new patients who are complex/sick, I don't have extended hours/weekends. Average sized practice in urban setting, average burden of chronic disease. I am a low prescriber of analgesics/ antibiotics/ puffers. I am in a FHO but my practice resembles a solo doc's.
Is anyone else out there having paradoxically low ED visit rates? I suspect the key is to reform practice to reduce service demand rather than increase supply. If confirmed, this would counter our current enthusiasm to build bigger teams and work longer hours.
Appreciate any feedback or insight, please comment or email me at adamchen@live.ca