https://doi.org/10.4081/ecj.2025.13811
Socio-demographic and health perception factors influencing non-urgent emergency department visits in the Veneto region: a cross-sectional pilot study
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Published: 4 June 2025
Emergency Department (ED) overcrowding is a significant issue in Italy, impacting resource allocation and patient care. Patients seeking ED care vary widely in terms of demographic characteristics and health perceptions, often presenting with non- urgent issues. Understanding the factors influencing ED utilization is essential for mitigating congestion. This study aims to assess personal and service-related factors influencing patients’ decisions to seek ED care, focusing on socio-demographic variables and health perceptions. A pilot study was conducted using a validated questionnaire adapted for the ED context. The survey was admini- stered to patients with non-urgent visits (white triage code) across four hospitals during a two-week period in October 2022. Statistical analysis, including chi-square and Fisher’s exact tests, identified associations between socio-demographic factors, health perceptions, and ED utilization motivations. A total of 792 que- stionnaires were analyzed. Findings revealed a “typical patient” characterized by high anxiety, perceived urgency, and overestima- tion of symptom severity. Significant associations were found bet- ween age, education level, chronic conditions, and ED utilization. Socio-demographic characteristics and health perceptions signifi- cantly influence ED visits. Improving patient education and awa- reness of alternative healthcare options may help alleviate ED overcrowding.
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