title: Want to drastically cut LWBS numbers? Try ice packs and adding a fast track.
abstract: Your ED's left-without-being-seen (LWBS) rate is a direct reflection of quality of care and customer service, plus a high rate can put you at risk of charges that you are violating the Emergency Medical Treatment and Labor Act. Some simple strategies can help, but faster throughput is the ultimate solution. Handing out ice packs and other comfort items will help people wait longer. Announcing waiting times might help, but it can backfire. A dedicated minor emergency unit can reduce LWBS rates dramatically. One facility cut the rate from 14% to 2%.
mesh_terms: D017598:Efficiency, Organizational; D004636:Emergency Service, Hospital / Q000458:organization & administration* / Q000706:statistics & numerical data; D015285:Hospital-Patient Relations; D006801:Humans; D007053:Ice; D017060:Patient Satisfaction; D013997:Time Factors; D014481:United States; D014850:Waiting Lists
chemical_list: D007053:Ice