Emergency room (ER) wait times can be long for Delaware residents.
Long ER wait times can delay critical care, reduce patient satisfaction, and increase the risk of complications.
⬇️ Scroll down to compare hospitals by average ER wait times. Verify the expected ER wait time with your healthcare provider.
💡 Consider advice for protecting yourself from germs and preparing for long wait times.
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.
ER wait times are estimated based upon available data from the U.S. Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services.
Delaware Hospitals with Shortest Wait Times
Below are five top hospitals in Delaware which have the shortest emergency room wait times:
- 🥇 Saint Francis Hospital has the shortest average ER wait time at 2.2 hours in Delaware
- 🥈 Beebe Medical Center, with an average wait time of 3.0 hours, ranks second for the shortest ER wait time in Delaware
- 🥉 TidalHealth Nanticoke, with an average wait time of 3.5 hours, ranks third for the shortest ER wait time in Delaware
Delaware Hospitals with Longest Wait Times
Below are five top hospitals in Delaware which have the longest emergency room wait times:
- 🐌 Bayhealth Hospital, Kent Campus has the longest average ER wait time at 5.1 hours in Delaware
- 🐢 Christiana Hospital, with an average wait time of 4.0 hours, ranks second for the longest ER wait time in Delaware
- 🦥 Bayhealth Hospital, Sussex Campus, with an average wait time of 3.9 hours, ranks third for the longest ER wait time in Delaware
Understand ER Wait Times
When you visit an emergency room in Delaware, the wait time is defined as the period from your arrival until you are seen by a provider, treated, and ultimately discharged, admitted, or transferred. Delaware’s hospitals, including those in larger systems such as ChristianaCare and Bayhealth, follow a triage system designed to prioritize patients based on the urgency of their condition.
For example, if you are experiencing severe chest pain, stroke symptoms, or significant trauma, you will be seen immediately. Conversely, patients with less critical complaints may experience longer wait times. Factors such as the time of day, seasonal fluctuations (for instance, during flu season), and sudden local emergencies can all impact the duration of your wait. Because Delaware is a smaller state, some hospitals may experience shorter waits during off-peak hours, while regional centers that serve as referral hubs—like ChristianaCare’s facilities in Newark and Wilmington—may see higher patient volumes and longer wait times.
Many Delaware hospitals now offer real-time wait time estimates on their websites or mobile apps. However, these figures typically represent only the initial waiting period until you are seen by a provider, not the entire duration of your visit. By asking for updated wait time information upon arrival, you can better manage your expectations and decide whether to visit immediately or, if possible, seek care at an alternative facility.
Recent News
In March 2025, a DelawareOnline report highlighted that state emergency rooms continue to face lengthy wait times, driven by persistent capacity challenges and systemic inefficiencies.
In February 2025, a Yahoo article noted that surges in communicable diseases—including flu, COVID‑19, and RSV—have further increased wait times, particularly at facilities such as Christiana in Stanton.
Back in August 2024, DelawareOnline examined the causes and potential solutions to these long wait times. The report emphasized issues like high patient volumes and staffing shortages as major contributors.
In February 2024, another DelawareOnline piece compared ER visit lengths across various hospitals in the state, revealing significant disparities in waiting periods.
Employee Benefit News reported in October 2023 that Delaware’s average ER wait time was about three hours and 30 minutes, ranking the state among those with the longest delays nationwide.
A December 2021 DelawareOnline article detailed how some ER visits could exceed three hours, underscoring ongoing challenges such as overwhelming patient loads and staffing deficits.
Cost of Emergency Care
The cost of an emergency room visit in Delaware is an important factor for many residents. Typically, a visit involves a base facility fee along with additional charges for diagnostic tests, laboratory work, imaging studies, and specialist consultations. For a routine, non-critical ER visit, you might be looking at a bill starting in the low thousands of dollars before extra procedures are added. For more complex or critical visits, the costs can increase substantially.
Local hospital systems such as ChristianaCare, Bayhealth, and Wilmington Hospital offer online cost-estimation tools designed to give you an approximate idea of your out-of-pocket expenses based on your insurance coverage. These estimates factor in negotiated rates between the hospital and your insurer, along with any deductibles, copayments, or coinsurance you might owe. However, the final bill may vary depending on the treatment received and the complexity of your condition.
For patients who are uninsured or who have high-deductible plans, the potential financial burden can be significant. Ambulance services, often billed separately, may further add to the total cost. Delaware has taken steps to protect patients through both federal measures—like the No Surprises Act—and state-level consumer protection laws, which limit how much you can be charged for out-of-network services during an emergency.
Before seeking emergency care, it is wise to review your insurance policy and explore the cost-estimation tools provided on hospital websites. In addition, ask about available financial assistance programs or flexible payment plans at facilities such as ChristianaCare or Bayhealth. These resources can help ease the financial burden if you face a significant bill.
Delaware Network of Care Providers
Delaware’s emergency care network is comprised of several prominent hospital systems and community facilities that together ensure comprehensive coverage for the state’s residents. ChristianaCare, the largest healthcare provider in Delaware, operates multiple emergency departments in Newark and Wilmington and is known for its advanced trauma care and specialized treatment for complex conditions. Wilmington Hospital, part of the ChristianaCare network, is a key facility that offers both adult and pediatric emergency services.
For pediatric emergencies, Nemours/Alfred I. duPont Hospital for Children is the state’s premier institution. Renowned for its dedicated pediatric trauma care and specialized emergency services, Nemours plays a critical role in serving Delaware families. In addition to these larger systems, Bayhealth provides essential emergency services in Dover and Smyrna, offering a balance of high-quality care and community accessibility.
Smaller community hospitals, such as Beebe Healthcare in Lewes and Sussex County Memorial Hospital in Dover, serve as important access points for residents in more rural parts of the state. These facilities often handle non-critical cases more efficiently, resulting in shorter wait times for less severe conditions.
Many of these providers offer online directories, real-time wait time updates, and cost-estimation tools, making it easier for you to identify which facility best meets your needs. Whether you live in northern Delaware, near the coast, or in a more central area, knowing your options helps ensure that you receive timely, appropriate care while minimizing costs.
Protect Yourself & Loved Ones
Crowded emergency departments, especially during peak seasons such as winter flu outbreaks or following local emergencies, can increase your risk of exposure to infectious diseases. In Delaware, where hospitals like ChristianaCare and Bayhealth occasionally see surges in patient volume, taking proactive measures to protect your health is essential.
Wearing a face mask is one of the simplest and most effective ways to reduce your risk. This is particularly important if you’re entering a busy ER during a respiratory illness outbreak. Additionally, practice good hand hygiene by frequently washing your hands with soap and water or using a hand sanitizer containing at least 60% alcohol.
Don’t overlook your personal belongings. Items such as your smartphone, wallet, and keys can harbor germs, so take a moment to wipe them down with disinfecting wipes upon entering the hospital. Delaware hospitals have implemented rigorous cleaning protocols and often designate separate waiting areas for patients with contagious symptoms. Familiarize yourself with these procedures as soon as you arrive, and if you experience symptoms or feel unwell while waiting, notify a nurse immediately.
Taking these steps not only protects you but also helps reduce the spread of illness to others, creating a safer environment within the emergency department.
Prepare for Long Wait Times
Extended wait times can sometimes be inevitable in emergency departments, particularly during high-demand periods in Delaware. Being well-prepared can help you manage these delays more comfortably and ensure that your visit is as efficient as possible.
Begin by gathering all essential documents before your visit. This includes your photo ID, insurance cards, a current list of medications, and any pertinent medical records. Organizing these items ahead of time will help speed up the registration process and reduce delays during triage.
Consider packing a small bag with items to improve your comfort during the wait. Practical additions include a neck pillow, a light blanket, and a portable charger for your electronic devices. Since food options in the hospital might be limited, non-perishable snacks and a refillable water bottle are also useful. Many Delaware hospitals now offer digital check-in systems and mobile apps that display real-time wait times. Utilizing these tools can help you decide whether to visit immediately or, if your condition allows, postpone your trip until the ER is less crowded.
Mental preparedness is equally important. Recognize that delays can occur, and employing stress-relief techniques such as deep breathing, meditation, or listening to calming music can help you stay relaxed. If possible, bring a friend or family member to offer support and assist with communication if you’re not feeling well.
Consider Other Care Options
Not every medical condition requires a visit to a full-scale emergency department. For non-life-threatening issues, Delaware offers several alternative care options that can provide timely and cost-effective treatment. Urgent care centers have become an increasingly popular choice for minor injuries and common illnesses. Facilities like those operated by ChristianaCare Urgent Care or Bayhealth Urgent Care in Dover offer shorter wait times and lower costs compared to busy ERs.
In addition to urgent care centers, community health centers and walk-in clinics provide essential services such as routine check-ups, vaccinations, and lab tests. These centers are particularly useful for addressing minor health concerns without the need for extensive diagnostic testing or prolonged waiting periods.
Telemedicine has also expanded in Delaware, allowing you to consult with a healthcare provider virtually for non-emergency issues. This option is especially advantageous if you prefer not to wait in a crowded facility or if you need a follow-up consultation after an initial ER visit.
Before deciding on an alternative care option, verify that the facility is in-network with your insurance plan. In-network care typically results in lower out-of-pocket expenses and fewer billing surprises. By comparing options and using online cost-estimation tools available through Delaware providers, you can choose the best setting for your specific needs.
Regulatory Protections
Delaware residents are protected by a robust framework of federal and state regulations that ensure you receive emergency care regardless of your ability to pay. The Emergency Medical Treatment and Labor Act (EMTALA) is a federal law that mandates all hospitals receiving Medicare funds to provide a medical screening exam and stabilize any emergency condition without regard to your insurance status.
In Delaware, additional consumer protection laws bolster these federal mandates. The state prohibits hospitals from denying emergency treatment based on financial status and requires transparent billing practices. Delaware also adheres to the federal No Surprises Act, which protects you from being balance billed for out-of-network emergency services. Under this law, if you receive care from an out-of-network provider at an in-network facility, you are only responsible for the in-network cost-sharing amounts, such as deductibles, copayments, and coinsurance.
Many Delaware hospitals now publish their standard charges online, allowing you to review pricing information before receiving care. This level of transparency is intended to help you anticipate costs and compare prices among facilities. If you believe you have been overcharged or have received a surprise bill, you can file a complaint with the Delaware Department of Insurance or contact the No Surprises Help Desk at 1-800-985-3059.
Advocate for Positive Change
Advocacy is a powerful tool in driving improvements within Delaware’s healthcare system. As a patient, your feedback and proactive engagement can help shape policies and practices that lead to better care, reduced wait times, and more affordable services.
Start by providing direct feedback to the hospitals where you receive care. Many of Delaware’s major healthcare providers, such as ChristianaCare and Bayhealth, have patient advisory councils and conduct regular surveys to gather insights about wait times, treatment quality, and billing practices. Sharing your experiences—both positive and negative—can help hospital administrators pinpoint areas for improvement.
Engaging with local elected officials is another effective advocacy strategy. Contact your state legislators or county supervisors to express concerns about issues like extended ER wait times, rising healthcare costs, and inadequate staffing. Public pressure from constituents can lead to increased funding, improved resource allocation, and legislative reforms that enhance patient care across the state. Consider participating in town hall meetings or community forums to share your story and suggestions.
Supporting local consumer advocacy organizations further amplifies your voice. Groups such as the Delaware Health Care Commission and regional consumer advocacy groups work to educate residents about their rights and push for greater transparency in healthcare pricing. By joining these organizations or attending their events, you can help foster a community-wide effort for systemic change.
If you encounter billing errors or are faced with an unexpected, high-cost bill, do not hesitate to challenge it. Contact your insurance provider, request an itemized bill, and file a complaint with the Delaware Department of Insurance if necessary. Using online tools—such as price comparison databases and hospital standard charge listings—can help you verify that you are being charged fairly.