Image courtesy of Stevenson Memorial Hospital
Stevenson Memorial Hospital has officially launched a new Rapid Assessment Zone (RAZ) in its Emergency Department, aimed at improving patient flow and reducing wait times for less urgent cases.
The RAZ is a designated care area within the hospital’s ED that focuses on patients with minor ailments or less critical needs. After several weeks of evaluation, the hospital has now moved forward with a full-time rollout.
Operating daily from 9:00 a.m. to 11:00 p.m., the Rapid Assessment Zone is designed to provide faster care for conditions such as sprains, coughs and colds, sore throats, minor cuts requiring stitches, and ear infections.
“We are offering the Rapid Assessment Zone to expedite care for patients with minor ailments, so that they can receive the care they need and return home sooner,” says Dr. Oswaldo Ramirez, Chief of the Emergency Department.
All patients will still check in through triage upon arrival, where staff will determine eligibility for treatment in the RAZ. In some cases, patients may return to the waiting area after initial treatment while awaiting test results, allowing staff to continue seeing other patients efficiently.
Hospital officials say the initiative is part of broader efforts to meet the needs of a growing community while enhancing the overall patient experience by delivering timely and appropriate care.
For more information about the Rapid Assessment Zone, click here.
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