Stones River Hospital is the only hospital in Woodbury. Expected ER wait time in Woodbury is 1.6 hours, compared to the Tennessee state average of 1.5 hours.
⬇️ Scroll down to compare ER wait times in Woodbury, Tennessee, to other municipalities in the United States.
ER wait time is defined as the time between (a) the admit decision time; and (b) the time of departure from the emergency room for ER patients admitted to inpatient status.
Consider advice for protecting yourself from germs, preparing for long wait times, planning ahead for peak times, considering alternative care options, and showing gratitude to healthcare workers.
Tennessee faces long ER wait times due to high rates of uninsured residents, chronic illnesses, and healthcare workforce shortages. Many residents use ERs for non-emergency conditions due to limited access to primary care. The state’s high prevalence of obesity, diabetes, and other chronic diseases increases the demand for emergency services. Mental health crises, coupled with a lack of psychiatric facilities, lead to prolonged ER stays. Rural hospital closures force residents to travel farther for care, adding to overcrowding in urban emergency departments. Seasonal illnesses, such as flu outbreaks, and staffing shortages further contribute to delays in care.
Protect Yourself & Loved Ones
Crowded hospital lobbies may raise your chances of disease exposure. Many patients come in with infectious illnesses. Protect yourself during your wait for care.
- Masks create a physical barrier that prevents the spread of respiratory droplets, reducing exposure to viruses and bacteria. Wear one whenever you’re in high-risk environments, such as waiting rooms or crowded public spaces. Masks are particularly effective during flu seasons when the risk of illness is highest.
- Pathogens thrive on shared surfaces in public spaces. Always wash your hands thoroughly after contact with communal items, such as elevator buttons or check-in kiosks. If soap and water aren’t available, use a hand sanitizer to ensure your hands remain clean and free of harmful germs throughout the day.
- Germs can easily transfer to personal items such as phones and bags from shared surfaces. Keep your belongings off high-touch areas like tables and counters in waiting rooms. At home, regularly sanitize these items with disinfecting wipes to maintain cleanliness and reduce the risk of exposure to harmful pathogens.
- A healthy immune system is essential for resisting infections. Adding supplements like Vitamin C, Vitamin D, and zinc to your daily routine helps your body fight illness more effectively. These nutrients support immune function, helping you stay protected during flu season or other times of high illness risk.
Prepare for Long Wait Times
Long waiting times are standard during busy hours or for non-emergencies. Get ready to handle the wait with ease.
- Waiting for extended periods in hospital chairs can strain your back and neck. Bring a lumbar cushion and neck pillow for added support. These aids are lightweight and easy to carry, making them a convenient way to stay comfortable and relaxed during prolonged stays in hospital waiting areas.
- Staying engaged during long waits helps reduce boredom and anxiety. Bring a mobile device loaded with your favorite entertainment, such as movies, shows, or games. Keeping your mind occupied helps create a more positive waiting experience, even in busy or noisy hospital environments.
- Long waits in hospitals can feel even longer with constant background noise. Noise-cancelling headphones provide relief by creating a quieter environment. Use them to enjoy calming music or immerse yourself in a podcast, turning a noisy waiting area into a more peaceful experience.
- Packing snacks ensures you have something to eat if hospital food options are limited or unavailable. Choose healthy options like granola bars or whole-grain crackers to maintain energy. Always confirm with medical staff if you’re allowed to eat, especially if medical procedures require fasting beforehand.
- Wearing comfortable clothing is essential for extended hospital visits. Opt for soft, breathable fabrics and layer with a cardigan or jacket to stay warm. Flexible, loose-fitting clothes allow you to sit comfortably for long periods, ensuring you remain relaxed during your waiting period.)
Plan Ahead for Peak Times
Thoughtful preparation for an emergency room visit can affect how long you wait, especially for minor concerns.
Mondays are often the busiest days in emergency rooms due to weekend case backlogs. To minimize wait times, aim for mid-week visits, such as Tuesday or Wednesday, when patient volumes are generally lower, offering a smoother experience.
Emergency room visits for children peak seasonally, with younger children visiting more frequently in autumn and older children in spring. Being aware of these patterns can help you plan visits during less crowded times for a quicker and less stressful experience.
Hospitals are fully staffed during business hours, yet higher patient demand during these times often results in longer waits. Evenings or off-peak times may offer shorter wait times depending on patient volumes and your condition’s urgency.
Consider Other Care Options
For minor medical concerns, alternative care settings can be a suitable choice.
- A family doctor acts as your primary healthcare provider, offering comprehensive care for ongoing or non-urgent conditions. Their familiarity with your medical history allows them to deliver tailored treatment plans that address your long-term health goals.
- Walk-in clinics are a great option for addressing minor health concerns quickly. From coughs to sprains, they provide efficient and professional care without requiring an appointment, saving time and reducing the need for emergency room visits.
- Urgent care centers offer an accessible, efficient option for treating non-life-threatening conditions like minor fractures or infections. With shorter wait times than emergency rooms, they’re ideal for patients needing immediate attention for non-emergency issues.
- Retail clinics provide accessible healthcare solutions for common conditions like colds or sinus infections. Conveniently located in retail stores, they offer quick and affordable services, making them a practical choice for patients seeking fast treatment for minor health concerns.
Show Gratitude
Acknowledging the efforts of ER healthcare workers demonstrates your recognition of their vital contributions.
- A simple “thank you” goes a long way. Letting healthcare workers know you appreciate their dedication helps lift their spirits and reinforces the importance of their efforts during long, challenging days.
- A thank-you card with a heartfelt note of appreciation can brighten a healthcare worker’s day. Including specific details about how their work impacted you adds a personal touch and makes the gesture even more meaningful.
- Donating meals or snacks to a hospital unit is a practical way to thank healthcare workers. Providing nutritious food options during their long shifts shows you care and understand the challenges they face daily.
- Writing an open letter of gratitude in a local newspaper or community blog highlights the contributions of healthcare workers. Publicly recognizing their efforts spreads awareness and inspires others to show their appreciation as well.
- Donating to organizations that provide financial assistance or wellness resources for healthcare workers is a meaningful way to thank them. Your support can enhance their work environment and improve their access to essential benefits.