The Korean Journal of Emergency Medical Services (한국응급구조학회지)

The Korea Society of Emergency Medical Services (한국응급구조학회)
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Comparison of the characteristics of patient who cancel after presentation to an emergency department by 119 ambulance

119 구급차를 통해 응급의료센터에 내원한 접수취소 환자들의 특성 비교

  • Yong-Joon Kim (Department of Emergency Medicine, SMG-SNU Boramae Medical Center) ;
  • Kyoung-Youl Lee (Department of Emergency Medical Service, Kongju National University)
  • 김용준 (서울특별시 보라매병원) ;
  • 이경열 (국립공주대학교 응급구조학과)
  • Received : 2023.10.25
  • Accepted : 2023.12.20
  • Published : 2023.12.31
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Abstract

Purpose: The purpose of this study was to analyze the characteristics of patients who canceled their ED visits and to determine the factors that influence ED cancellation. Methods: Retrospective study that analyzed data from the electronic medical records(EMR) and Prehospital Care Reports(PCRs) of 305 patients who cancelled their appointments at a single emergency medical center over a six-month period from October 12, 2022, to April 12, 2023. Results: ED cancellations were 2.287 times higher if the patient presented to the ambulance after outpatient hours(09:00~17:00) (p=.007), and ED cancellations were 3.712 times higher if the patient presented to the ambulance under the influence of alcohol(p=.011). For patients' symptoms, medical diseases were associated with a 1.965 times increase in cancelled ED visits compared to other modes of transport (p=.005), while mental and chronic diseases were associated with a 67.3% decrease in cancelled ED visits compared to other modes of transport (OR=0.327, CI=[0.130-0.822], p=.018). symptomatic improvement was associated with a 2.482 times increase in presentations to a 119 ambulance compared to delayed waiting time(p=.022). Conclusion: Emergency medical centers should consider improving the legal system, such as increasing emergency medical care fees, to reduce the number of patients who cancel their appointments.

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