Nov. 16--HIGH POINT -- A rising number of visits to the emergency department at High Point Regional Hospital could be a product of patients putting off preventative care appointments in order to save money, some physicians say.
Dr. John McSadden said he has seen patients putting off yearly check-ups and blood tests at High Point Family Practice, where he serves as a physician, in efforts to save funds in a down economy.
Putting off those appointments may only accrue additional costs and problems in the future, he said, and statistics from High Point Regional Health System may back up that claim. The hospital has recorded a 3.17 percent increase in emergency department visits compared to last year, said Chad Campbell, a spokesman for the health system.
"We've seen an influx of patients with flu-like symptoms, and it's also due to an overall economy issue," he said. "More individuals who are unemployed and do not have insurance are coming to the emergency room. In addition, we have seen a number of patients who are putting off treatment and regular checkups and are extremely ill when they do come in."
While individuals are trying to save funds or find new ways to receive health care, McSadden said postponing appointments can add to the problem.
"Whenever someone ends up in the emergency room, it's going to be more expensive," he said.
Visits to the emergency department can be particularly expensive to the hospital due to the Emergency Medical Treatment and Active Labor Act, which requires hospitals and ambulances to assist anyone in need of emergency care regardless of citizenship, legal status or ability to pay.
High Point Regional's inpatient and outpatient statistics also have increased for the year, with a 6.34 percent increase for inpatient visits and a 3.14 percent increase in total discharges.
phaynes@hpe.com -- 888-3617
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