If you arrive at an emergency department (ED) today, you’ll be triaged. That’s a quick judgement about how urgently you need care. Those in crisis are seen quickly, while others may wait hours.
A decade ago, three-quarters (74%) of emergency patients in public hospitals were seen within the clinically recommended time by a nurse, doctor or other health professional after arrival. Now, only two-thirds (67%) of patients are seen on time.
The same pattern shows up in elective surgery. Ten years ago, the median wait was around 35 days between a doctor deciding you need surgery and you having the operation. Today, it’s 45 days. Some wait over a year.
