Based on our research, it appears that increases in numbers...

Based on our research, it appears that increases in numbers of patients at both ends of the acuity spectrum contribute to ED overcrowding. Some increased volume may be due to severely ill patients who can now be treated successfully in the ED, such as those with irregular heartbeat. At the other end of the spectrum, a growing number of less sick patients are now coming to the ED, particularly in areas without after-hours facilities. This is an access problem.