[dbussone]

Originally Posted by Butterfly201

Crying wolf? I doubt anyone in an emergency room is there without a good reason. And when you get older your medical problems become more serious...contrary to the insurance opinion that you will stay well -- and why some insurance companies don't pay your bills,,,surprise! And when you are that ill elderly or not-- you want at least competent care to make you better - not to be thought of as the group that are "especially challenging" So, the majority I read here spend hours waiting to get into a room. That is a fact. At least I do read that the nurses are kind to them. My takeaway from your comment is STAY YOUNG-- don't get sick--or minor illness only- Do NoT get old as then you are a major problem for the hospitals, the staff, and I'm sure the bean counters there.

Wow. Please re-read it. Patients/people are the reason hospitals exist.

And yes, there are some people in the ER who don't need to be there. The ER is not a substitute for a primary care physician. Nor is it a place to try and get drugs if you're an addict. People abuse ERs all over the country- and some people suffer needlessly because space is taken by those who don't need to be there. If you think otherwise I'd encourage you to seek out a nurse or physician who works or worked in one.

Just like ambulances are not taxis. But there are people who abuse them as well. Next time you see a first responder just ask them.