Information for Reducing Emergency Room Visits
What You Need to Know Before You Apply
What is the purpose of this trial?
This trial aims to reduce unnecessary emergency room visits by providing patients with guidance after their visit. Participants will receive a follow-up text message the day after discharge from the emergency department. The message will direct them to either contact their primary care doctor or use an Intelligent Triage tool to assess symptoms. The study will compare how often patients return to the emergency room and whether they follow the advice given in the messages. Patients who have visited a Geisinger emergency department for a minor issue and were discharged within the last day might be a good fit for this trial. As an unphased trial, this study offers patients the chance to contribute to innovative healthcare solutions that could enhance emergency care experiences.
Will I have to stop taking my current medications?
The trial information does not specify whether you need to stop taking your current medications. It seems focused on communication after an emergency room visit, so it's unlikely to require changes to your medication.
What prior data suggests that this protocol is safe for reducing emergency room visits?
Research has shown that contacting a primary care doctor after an emergency room visit can improve care management. This follow-up increases the likelihood of scheduling appointments with the doctor, potentially reducing unnecessary emergency room visits. Studies have not identified any serious safety concerns with this approach, as it primarily involves communication and support.
For the Intelligent Triage tool, studies have shown promising results. One study found that using artificial intelligence (AI) in triage reduced emergency room wait times by 30% and decreased negative outcomes for high-risk patients. This suggests that AI triage can safely and effectively manage patient flow in emergency settings without reported safety issues.
Both methods are well-received, focusing on improving communication and decision-making rather than introducing new medical treatments. No significant reports of negative effects have been linked to these interventions.12345Why are researchers excited about this trial?
Researchers are excited about this trial because it explores innovative ways to reduce unnecessary emergency room visits. Unlike traditional methods that rely mainly on patient education or direct care interventions, one approach encourages patients to contact their primary care provider, which could foster a stronger patient-doctor relationship and promote continuity of care. Another approach uses Intelligent Triage, a tech-savvy way to assess symptoms, potentially offering quicker, more personalized guidance on whether an ER visit is necessary. Both strategies aim to empower patients with better information, ultimately streamlining healthcare resources and improving patient outcomes.
What evidence suggests that this trial's outreach methods could be effective in reducing unnecessary emergency room visits?
This trial will compare different approaches to reducing emergency room visits. One arm of the trial will encourage participants to contact their primary care provider (PCP). Research has shown that reaching out to a primary care doctor can significantly reduce unnecessary emergency room visits. For instance, studies have found that maintaining a good relationship with one doctor can lower avoidable ER visits by 22%. Effective communication with a doctor is also linked to 19% fewer ER visits.
Another arm will test Intelligent Triage, a smart triage tool that helps determine how urgently patients need care. These AI-powered systems can prioritize patients and reduce wait times. Some studies have found that AI-based triage can decrease the time from arrival to first care by 33%. Both methods aim to guide patients to the right care, potentially reducing unnecessary ER visits.16789Who Is on the Research Team?
Amir Goren, PhD
Principal Investigator
Geisinger Clinic
Are You a Good Fit for This Trial?
This trial is for patients who have been discharged from a Geisinger emergency department with non-serious conditions. It aims to inform them about alternative healthcare resources to reduce unnecessary ER visits.Inclusion Criteria
Exclusion Criteria
Timeline for a Trial Participant
Screening
Participants are screened for eligibility to participate in the trial
Intervention
Participants receive outreach via text message and information in their after visit summary (AVS) following ED discharge. Depending on the assigned condition, it includes calls to see their primary care provider (PCP) or use an Intelligent Triage tool.
Follow-up
Participants are monitored for ED use and follow-through on message-specific calls to action, such as contacting PCP or using Intelligent Triage.
What Are the Treatments Tested in This Trial?
Interventions
- Information about healthcare resources
Find a Clinic Near You
Who Is Running the Clinical Trial?
Geisinger Clinic
Lead Sponsor