Emergency Department Utilization Among the Poor: The Need to Improve Access to Quality Primary Care

Abstract

Inappropriate use of emergency departments and inadequate access to high-quality primary care are two interrelated issues that characterize health care for America's poor. A thorough rectification of this issue must not only discourage patients from ER misusage and enhance the accessibility of primary care but also increase the size and competence of the primary care workforce. The implementation of such programs and policies must be occur if poor individuals are to gain the agency required to escape the cycle of poverty. [From Introduction]