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Rethinking patient education in the overutilization of pediatric emergency medicine

Destiny Kanning

, Michigan State University

Volume 1, Issue 1 | Spring 2025

Abstract

Overutilization of pediatric emergency departments (EDs) for non-emergent issues burdens healthcare systems, inflating costs and reducing access to urgent care. This study evaluated the impact of targeted educational interventions on mitigating these challenges. Data from over 2,000 patients across Michigan revealed an average cost of $1,233 per non-emergent visit, totaling approximately $369,900 during the 18-month study period. Interventions—including brochures, workshops, and a ”traffic light” system for healthcare navigation—improved patient understanding of healthcare options by 68% (t-test, p = 0.1383). Results demonstrate the effectiveness of tailored reeducation programs in reducing ED overutilization and enhancing pediatric healthcare outcomes.

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