The document discusses the complex relationship between emergency departments (ED) and inpatient care, emphasizing the critical need for a well-functioning ED-inpatient interface (EDII) to enhance patient outcomes and safety. It presents data on patient flow, mortality, and cost implications associated with ED admissions, while highlighting the challenges faced in optimizing care during this transition. The authors advocate for a shift from a focus on process measures to a patient-centered approach, suggesting that improvements in patient outcomes can lead to better overall performance in the healthcare system.
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