Emergency Department Overcrowding and Employer Impact

This report discusses the issue of overcrowding in Emergency Departments (ED) and its implications for employers. It highlights a significant increase in high-acuity emergency visits in 2023, primarily due to noncardiac chest and abdominal pain, with patients experiencing long wait times. The report notes that the ED is a critical entry point into the U.S. healthcare system, with over 155 million visits recorded in 2025. Vulnerable populations, including the uninsured and infants, are particularly affected, with a majority of visits covered by Medicaid or Medicare. The report outlines the challenges faced by employer-sponsored health plans in managing costs associated with ED visits, particularly for non-emergent issues. It suggests that improved access to preventive care and chronic disease management could help reduce unnecessary ED utilization. Employers are encouraged to analyze ED utilization data and enhance their health plans to support overall employee wellness and reduce costs.