Patient's perceptions and uses of a pediatric emergency room

The patient population utilizing the emergency room (ER) of St. Louis Children's Hospital (StLCH) was analyzed for social attributes relating to ER utilization. Contrary to prevailing belief, concern that the patient's condition was worsening governed selection of the time of visit for the majority (63%), not availability of transportation nor other enabling factors. Families headed by single women were especially likely to identify the ER as their regular source of care in contrast to two parent families. Escort's perceptions of the illness differed markedly from those of physicians. Increased understanding of this area may help solve problems of ambulatory care.