Estonia's overcrowded ERs test new triage to ease pressure on hospitals

Estonian emergency rooms continue to face overcrowding despite a drop in visits last year. Nearly half of patients at North Estonia Medical Center’s ER arrive with minor health issues. Hospitals are now testing new ways to ease the pressure on emergency services. North Estonia Medical Center will trial a new system this summer. After initial triage, less urgent cases will be directed to family physicians or pharmacies. The aim is to ensure patients receive the right level of care and reduce unnecessary ER visits.

A higher ER visit fee introduced in April 2022 had little impact on patient numbers at Tartu University Hospital. Public awareness campaigns have shown short-term success in lowering visits, but long-term solutions are still needed. The Ministry of Social Affairs is working on systemic changes, including outcome-based financing to improve care quality and prevent chronic illnesses.

Currently, 80% of ER patients are sent home without hospitalisation. Many still use emergency departments because family doctors and nurses have limited appointment availability. ERs are effectively filling the role of primary care providers. The new triage system aims to redirect minor cases and reduce ER strain. Outcome-based financing could further prevent unnecessary visits by addressing chronic conditions. These measures seek to ensure emergency services focus on critical cases only.