Statistical analysis of patients with recurrent admissions to the emergency department

This study investigates repeat visits to the Emergency Department (ED) of Kırşehir Training and Research Hospital within a seven-day period. The aim was to examine the socio-demographic characteristics of these patients, identify the medical and social causes of repeat visits, and determine preventable factors. This retrospective cross-sectional study analyzed data from patients who presented to the ED in 2023, retrieved from the Integrated Hospital Management System. Variables such as age, gender, residence, presenting complaints, triage categories, outcomes of visits, and clinical management characteristics between the first and second visits were evaluated. The findings revealed that most repeat visitors were younger patients residing in the city center, with gastrointestinal complaints being the most common cause. In the majority of second visits, complaints remained the same, and the need for additional diagnostic tests increased. Furthermore, significant associations were found between physician experience, patient demographics, and visit outcomes. In conclusion, recurrent ED visits pose a considerable burden on both healthcare systems and patient management. Strengthening primary healthcare services, enhancing patient education, and developing targeted strategies for high-risk patient groups are essential to reduce unnecessary repeat visits. Keywords: Emergency department, repeat visit, recurrent patient, healthcare services, patient management