At some point in our lives, a visit to the emergency room becomes inevitable. Based on recent data released by the Center for Medicare and Medicaid Services, these are the top 10 states where patients experience the longest waiting times before receiving care. It’s beneficial to be aware, especially if you reside in or plan to move to one of these states.
Maryland
Maryland leads the nation in having the lengthiest ER wait times, with patients typically waiting for 4 hours and 2 minutes before leaving. This issue persists despite Maryland’s renowned medical facilities, such as Johns Hopkins Hospital, due to a significant nursing shortage, with 25% of hospital nursing positions remaining unfilled.
Rhode Island
Rhode Island takes the second spot, with an average ER wait time of 3 hours and 34 minutes, even though it has 19 hospitals serving a population of just over one million residents.
Massachusetts
Massachusetts ranks third, with an average ER wait time of 3 hours and 33 minutes. The state has grappled with hospital staff shortages, leading to a reliance on travel nurses and higher turnover rates.