The expectation, based on previous studies in the UK and abroad, was that 20-40% of patients would fall into the low acuity group. Anyone who actually works in an ED could have told you that low acuity patients are not the issue. Yes, there are unacceptable waits for medical care, but the main problem is that departments are overwhelmed with sick patients lined up on trolleys waiting to be admitted. In this situation, the patients waiting with a headache or diarrhoea who should have seen a GP are the least of your problems, although the delays are unwelcome for them too. We also need more GPs who can offer proactive care and continuity to keep patients well and prevent their emergency admissions.
