The Benefits of Freestanding Emergency Rooms

Freestanding emergency rooms (FERs), or freestanding emergency departments, are revolutionizing the way emergency care is delivered. Unlike traditional hospital-based ERs, stand-alone emergency rooms offer a range of advantages that can significantly improve patient experience and outcomes. In this article, we will explore the key benefits of FERs, including:

• Reduced wait times
• Enhanced accessibility
• High-quality care
• State-of-the-art facilities
• Cost efficiency

Let’s examine each of the pros and cons of freestanding emergency rooms in more detail to better understand why they are becoming an increasingly popular choice for emergency medical services.

What is a freestanding emergency room?

A freestanding emergency room is a medical facility that provides immediate care for emergency medical conditions but is not physically connected to a hospital. 

These facilities are generally fully equipped with advanced diagnostic and treatment technologies, similar to those found in a traditional hospital-based ER. They are also staffed by board-certified emergency physicians and skilled medical personnel trained to handle a wide range of medical emergencies. 

In addition, most freestanding emergency rooms operate 24/7 (including all of our Complete Care locations), ensuring that patients have access to critical care services at any time of day or night.

What is the difference between a hospital ER and a freestanding ER? 

The main distinction is that hospital-based ERs are attached to full-service hospitals, while freestanding facilities operate as standalone establishments.

Learn about the differences between urgent care vs an emergency room.

Top 5 advantages of stand-alone ERs

Freestanding ERs are capable of addressing almost all common emergency conditions that you or your family might face, from left side pain to allergic reactions to bee stings. Here are some of the benefits of choosing a freestanding ER:

1. Reduced wait times

One of the biggest advantages of freestanding emergency rooms is that they have significantly shorter wait times compared to traditional hospital-based ERs. This means that patients can receive prompt care and treatment, and quickly get on the road to recovery. 

In fact, according to a study published by the Journal of Emergency Medicine, freestanding emergency rooms have an average wait time of 10 minutes, compared to hospitals, which can range from 30 minutes to several hours.

I cannot express how much I love Complete Care. I was seen immediately with zero wait time. So far, I haven’t had any gastro issues since being discharged. I can always count on the doctors and nurses to provide quality care. Complete Care is by far the best option when seeking emergency care for my family. Many thanks to the doctors and nurses at Fossil Creek Complete Care.

Levon W. | Fossil Creek Complete Care Patient

2. Convenient location

Freestanding ERs are usually strategically located in areas with high population density, making them easily accessible to a larger number of people. This is especially helpful in emergency situations where every minute counts, and getting to the closest available medical facility can make all the difference. 

In contrast, traditional hospital-based ERs are typically located within larger hospital complexes, which can be difficult to navigate and cause delays. Because the nearest ER may already be far away — especially for those of us in Texas — you don’t want to spend another half hour figuring out how to get from the parking lot to the emergency intake; you want to park, walk in, and receive the care you need. 

Complete Care has locations throughout Texas…

• Austin ER
• Corpus Christi ER
• Dallas/Fort Worth ER
• East Texas ER
• Lubbock ER
• San Antonio ER

…and in Colorado Springs, which are easily accessible for patients in those areas.

3. Advanced medical equipment and high-quality care

Another advantage of freestanding ERs is that they are equipped with state-of-the-art medical equipment, similar to what you would find in a hospital-based ER. This allows for immediate diagnosis and treatment of various medical conditions, ensuring a high level of care for patients. Freestanding facilities also have highly trained and experienced medical staff who are able to handle all types of emergencies.

Staff was amazing. The care that was given to me was extraordinary. They were quick and efficient and tended to all of my needs. Hands down, the best care facility in Corpus Christi, TX!

Misty A. | TLC Complete Care Patient

4. Cost-effective alternative

Freestanding ERs are often considered a cost-effective alternative to traditional hospital-based ERs. This is because they offer similar emergency services at a lower cost without compromising on the quality of care. 

5. Wide range of services offered

Apart from providing emergency medical care, freestanding ERs also offer a wide range of services, such as onsite laboratory and imaging services, which can be essential in emergency situations. This means that patients can put their minds at ease, and focus on staying calm, with the knowledge that they will receive comprehensive care without having to visit multiple facilities.

Learn more about when to go to the ER.

Head to a Complete Care 24/7, freestanding emergency room for all of your emergency needs!

When it comes to addressing urgent medical issues, Complete Care offers convenience, expertise, and comprehensive services that will allow you to get in, get out, and get on the road to healing. 

Our freestanding emergency rooms are equipped with advanced technology and staffed by highly experienced medical professionals who help ensure top-quality care without the wait times typical of hospital-based ERs. 

With our cost-effective services and wide range of offerings, you can rest assured that you are receiving the best possible care at an affordable price. When an emergency strikes, you can visit Complete Care for immediate and reliable medical attention.

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