The American journal of emergency medicine
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Acute asthma exacerbations (AAE) account for many Pediatric Emergency Department (PED) visits. Chest radiography (CXR) is often performed in these patients to identify practice-changing findings such as pneumonia (PNA). Limited knowledge exists to balance the cost and radiation dose of CXR with expected yield of clinically meaningful information. ⋯ CXR infrequently adds valuable information in children with AAE. Patients treated with antibiotic within 7days are more likely to have PNA identified on CXR and receive antibiotics. A larger study is needed to examine potential significance of hypoxia and crackles.
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Patients newly insured through coverage expansion under the Affordable Care Act (ACA) may have difficulty obtaining timely primary care follow-up appointments after emergency department (ED) discharge. We evaluated the association between availability of timely follow-up appointment with practice access improvements, including patient-centered medical home (PCMH) designations or extended-hours appointments. ⋯ PCMH designation and extended-hours appointments were not associated with improved availability of timely primary care follow-up appointment for discharged ED patients. EDs should engage local clinicians and other stakeholders to strengthen linkage and care transition with outpatient practices.