Factors related to paediatric patients' emergency department utilization

To help providers better target services toward specific patient needs, we conducted a prospective study of parents' health beliefs, insurance status and demographics as they predicted paediatric emergency room (ED) utilization. Parents/legal guardians (n = 388) of children ages 0-17 years with minor illnesses completed demographic and health belief questionnaires while waiting for their child to be seen. Post-discharge, children's medical records were reviewed for insurance and utilization information. Higher perceived barriers, higher perceived benefits of care and public insurance status predicted higher ED utilization. Qualitative data indicated that parents used the ED primarily because their regular clinic was closed or had no available appointments. Results are discussed as they relate to a risk profile for higher ED utilization, and practice implications are presented.