Provided by Sentara Northern Virginia Medical Center
A new initiative launched by Sentara earlier this year is now available in Northern Virginia. Patients using the emergency department (ED) at Sentara Northern Virginia Medical Center (SNVMC) or the nearby standalone emergency department, Sentara Lake Ridge (SLR), can better plan their ED visits by checking estimated wait-times online at Sentara.com and alerting staff of their arrival.
The new initiative lets patients sign in online via Sentara’s MyChart and alert the emergency department that they’re on their way. MyChart enters the patient’s information into the hospital’s system, simplifying registration and helping the ED team plan for the visit.
“This initiative makes it easier to get care at Sentara’s emergency departments by allowing patients to see the estimated wait times and alert us they are on their way,” said SNVMC President Jeff Joyner. “It’s a more seamless, patient-centered way of getting care from our emergency departments.”
Estimated wait times represent the approximate time from arrival at the emergency department to the time when a patient sees a care provider, such as a nurse or physician.
In addition, to expedite registration once they arrive, patients can check-in using iPads posted at emergency departments, as well as sign up for text alerts about their visit.
“When a patient notifies the emergency department that they’re on their way, it’s not the same as making an appointment,” explained Joyner. “Instead, the feature gives clinical staff better ‘situational awareness,’ allowing them to adequately prepare for a patient’s visit.”
Hundreds of patients have already used the system that is now in place across Sentara’s 12 emergency departments. Sentara leaders report that feedback from patients and team members has been positive.
“We’re excited to share that our new welcome process is already making a difference. By setting clear expectations and simplifying registration, we’re creating a smoother start for patients and families while strengthening safety from the very first step of care” said SNVMC Emergency Department Director Nicole M. Dickinson.
Make Online Urgent Care Appointments
Patients also have the option to schedule same-day appointments at Sentara’s Urgent Care – which includes Sentara Urgent Care – Port Potomac at 16422 Navigation Dr., Woodbridge.
Walk-in visits are always available during regular hours at Sentara Urgent Care locations in Virginia and Northeastern North Carolina.
The Best Location for Care
Emergency departments, also known as emergency rooms, treat serious or life-threatening conditions that require immediate attention, such as chest pain, high fevers, or poisoning. All patients are seen in order of medical priority, ensuring the person most in need is seen first.
For life-threatening accidents or injuries, patients should call 911 immediately.
Urgent care is designed for non-life-threatening issues that need quick treatment, like minor cuts, sore throats, colds, and vaccinations.
Sentara Lake Ridge
Your primary care provider is ideal for managing ongoing health needs, like general adult and pediatric care, immunizations, and non-life-threatening conditions. More information about primary care services available through Sentara is available online.
“Our overall goal is to give our patients more control to determine the best place to seek care, which improves patient outcomes and experience,” remarked Joyner. “And utilizing the resources of Sentara’s medical center, urgent care, primary care services, and other locations of care, it brings the consumer a more affordable, seamless, simple experience.”
Learn more about the best place to get the appropriate care in this article, “Where to go for Care.”
