@danab
I have been going to a Mayo Jacksonville ER. When first open of course the patient count was low. Today the ER is overwhelmed with patients.

I have issue with ICD/Pacemaker going off and when I call am told to go to ER. One of the things that cause stress and anxiety which can lead to heart PVCs and issues is going to an ER and sitting in waiting room and or put in a hallway because no rooms are available.

I finally told my providers if I really don't need to go please don't asked me to. I have been put in hallway for hours. The stress and anxiety of this is not good for anyone regardless that they have heart issues.

My wife is the same being told to go to ER for very low glucose into having to give glucose shots. She too winds up in hallway.

I know ER must put life saving first but ER really need to look at the mental health impact of going there and having to endure things like this. I have alwasy been in favor of having a triage system at ERs. A community health (CH) section and a emergency side ER. With lifesavings to ER and the others to CH. That way ER hallways and rooms are only for those in direct need of treatment immediately. CH for those items like dog bites, feeling bad, sinus infections, etc. that are not life threatening or could be life threatening if not treated immediately.

Why do I say this. Just like a lot of poster post after hours there doctors are not available and thus the ER are where you are sent. Problem is ER should be for emergencies not just urgent care where only place you can get it.

Mayo Jacksonville offers and I use it almost all the time now a after hour speciality and commuinty health doctor on call and avaiable via phone. That way you can talk to community health doctor or specialist about your condition. When you are a patient they can bring up your medical records so can advise you directly.