Emergency room (ER) wait times can be long for Los Angeles 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.
Los Angeles Hospitals with Shortest Wait Times
Below are five top hospitals in Los Angeles, California which have the shortest emergency room wait times:
- 🥇 MLK Community Hospital has the shortest average ER wait time at 2.4 hours in Los Angeles
- 🥈 Los Angeles Community Hospital, with an average wait time of 2.6 hours, ranks second for the shortest ER wait time in Los Angeles
- 🥉 East Los Angeles Doctors Hospital, with an average wait time of 2.8 hours, ranks third for the shortest ER wait time in Los Angeles
- Adventist Health White Memorial, with an average wait time of 3.2 hours, ranks fourth for the shortest ER wait time in Los Angeles
- PIH Health Good Samaritan Hospital, with an average wait time of 4.2 hours, ranks fifth for the shortest ER wait time in Los Angeles
Los Angeles Hospitals with Longest Wait Times
Below are five top hospitals in Los Angeles, California which have the longest emergency room wait times:
- 🐌 LA General Medical Center has the longest average ER wait time at 6.4 hours in Los Angeles
- 🐢 Cedars-Sinai Medical Center, with an average wait time of 5.6 hours, ranks second for the longest ER wait time in Los Angeles
- 🦥 Ronald Reagan UCLA Medical Center, with an average wait time of 5.5 hours, ranks third for the longest ER wait time in Los Angeles
- Hollywood Presbyterian Medical Center, with an average wait time of 4.4 hours, ranks fourth for the longest ER wait time in Los Angeles
- California Hospital Medical Center Los Angeles, with an average wait time of 4.3 hours, ranks fifth for the longest ER wait time in Los Angeles
Understand ER Wait Times
In Los Angeles, your emergency room wait time is defined as the period from your arrival at the hospital until you are first seen and treated. Major facilities such as Ronald Reagan UCLA Medical Center, Cedars-Sinai Medical Center, Keck Hospital of USC, and LAC+USC Medical Center utilize a triage system that prioritizes patients based on the urgency of their conditions. If you’re experiencing severe symptoms—like chest pain, stroke indicators, or major trauma—you will be seen immediately. However, for less critical complaints, you might experience longer waits.
Several factors contribute to these wait times. First, Los Angeles is one of the nation’s largest urban centers, and its hospitals often deal with very high patient volumes. During peak hours, such as late evenings or flu season, the influx of patients can extend wait times significantly. Additionally, factors such as the availability of diagnostic equipment, staffing levels, and even local traffic congestion (which can affect ambulance arrival times) play a role.
Many of Los Angeles’s hospitals now offer real-time wait time updates via their websites or mobile apps. For example, Cedars-Sinai and UCLA provide digital check-in systems that allow patients to view current wait estimates before they even set foot in the facility. However, these estimates usually reflect the initial waiting period until you see a provider—not the total time you might spend in the emergency department.
Recent News
In a reflective piece, an AfroLA reporter discussed the challenges facing Los Angeles’s emergency medicine system, including prolonged wait times and how reporters are covering the issue.
An Axios San Francisco article from September 2023 reported that across California, the median emergency room wait time rose to three hours—reflecting a broader trend that also impacts Los Angeles hospitals. The rising patient volumes and staffing shortages are significant contributors to these delays.
A USC Viterbi School of Engineering report published in June 2023 detailed how students are developing simulation models at Los Angeles General Medical Center to optimize patient flow. Their work aims to reduce delays that, at times, extend beyond five hours.
Cost of Emergency Care
The cost of emergency care in Los Angeles is a significant consideration for patients and their families. Like other major urban areas in California, ER visits in Los Angeles can be expensive due to high operating costs, advanced technology, and the city’s competitive healthcare market.
An emergency room visit typically includes a base facility fee, with additional charges for diagnostic tests (such as blood work, X-rays, CT scans, or MRIs), laboratory services, and specialist consultations. For example, a routine ER visit for a non-life-threatening issue might start at several thousand dollars before additional procedures are added, while more complex cases—such as those involving surgery or intensive care—can result in much higher bills.
Los Angeles hospitals like Ronald Reagan UCLA Medical Center, Cedars-Sinai, and Keck Hospital of USC provide online tools that help patients estimate their out-of-pocket costs based on their insurance coverage. These cost-estimation tools factor in negotiated rates between the hospitals and insurance providers, along with deductibles, copayments, and coinsurance amounts. However, the actual cost may vary depending on the specific services rendered and the complexity of your condition.
For patients with high-deductible health plans or those without comprehensive insurance, the financial burden can be daunting. Ambulance services, which are often billed separately, may further increase the total cost of your ER visit. Fortunately, both federal laws (such as the No Surprises Act) and state consumer protections in California help mitigate these costs by limiting the amount you can be charged for out-of-network emergency services.
Before heading to the ER, it is advisable to review your insurance policy, use online cost-estimation tools available on hospital websites, and ask about financial assistance programs. Many Los Angeles hospitals offer flexible payment plans or charity care options to help ease the financial burden for patients. Being proactive about understanding and managing costs can reduce financial stress during an emergency.
Local Network of Care Providers
Los Angeles is home to a world-class network of emergency care providers that includes several nationally recognized hospitals. The region boasts major academic medical centers, community hospitals, and urgent care centers that cater to a diverse urban population.
Ronald Reagan UCLA Medical Center and Cedars-Sinai Medical Center are two of the most prominent hospitals in the area, known for their advanced technology, highly trained staff, and comprehensive trauma and emergency services. These institutions serve as referral centers for complex cases and often handle high-acuity emergencies, though this can sometimes result in longer wait times for less critical issues.
Keck Hospital of USC and LAC+USC Medical Center are also central to Los Angeles’s emergency care landscape. These facilities are renowned for their expertise in critical care, surgical interventions, and advanced diagnostic services. They often collaborate with surrounding community hospitals to ensure that patients receive the appropriate level of care based on the severity of their condition.
In addition to these major centers, Los Angeles has an extensive network of urgent care centers and community clinics. Facilities such as those operated by Providence Health & Services and local walk-in clinics provide an alternative for patients with non-life-threatening conditions. These centers typically offer shorter wait times and lower costs, making them an attractive option for those seeking prompt care for minor injuries or illnesses.
By familiarizing yourself with the local network and confirming which facilities are in-network with your insurance, you can make informed decisions about where to seek care when an emergency arises. Many hospitals now offer comprehensive directories and real-time wait time updates on their websites, which can help you choose a facility that best meets your needs based on current conditions and your location within Los Angeles.
Protect Yourself & Loved Ones
In a bustling city like Los Angeles, emergency rooms can sometimes become crowded, particularly during seasonal surges or public health emergencies. Overcrowding not only leads to longer wait times but can also increase the risk of exposure to contagious illnesses.
Wearing a face mask is one of the simplest yet most effective ways to protect yourself in crowded ERs. This precaution is especially important during periods of heightened respiratory illness—such as during flu season or when COVID-19 cases spike. In addition to masks, practicing good hand hygiene by frequently washing your hands with soap and water or using a hand sanitizer with at least 60% alcohol can help prevent the spread of germs.
Be mindful of personal belongings as well. Items like smartphones, wallets, and keys can become vectors for germs in crowded spaces. Consider disinfecting these items upon arrival at the hospital. Los Angeles hospitals, including Cedars-Sinai and UCLA, have implemented rigorous cleaning protocols and often designate specific areas for patients with contagious symptoms. Familiarize yourself with these protocols as soon as you enter the ER, and if you begin to feel unwell or show signs of an infection, alert a nurse immediately.
Prepare for Long Wait Times
Given the high volume of patients in Los Angeles emergency departments, particularly at major facilities during peak times, extended wait times can sometimes occur. Proper preparation can help you manage these delays and reduce the associated stress.
Start by gathering all necessary documentation before your visit. This includes your photo ID, insurance cards, a current list of medications, and any pertinent medical records. Organizing these documents ahead of time can expedite the registration process, helping you move through the system more quickly.
Consider packing a small bag with items to increase your comfort during a long wait. Useful items might include a neck pillow, a light blanket, and a portable charger for your electronic devices. Since food options within the hospital may be limited or not to your liking, non-perishable snacks and a refillable water bottle are also practical additions.
Many Los Angeles hospitals now offer digital check-in services and mobile apps that provide real-time updates on wait times. For instance, UCLA and Cedars-Sinai have user-friendly apps that allow you to monitor current conditions and receive notifications when it’s your turn. These digital tools can help you decide whether to visit immediately or, if your condition permits, to delay your visit until the ER is less crowded.
Mental preparation is also important. Accept that wait times might occasionally be longer than expected, and use relaxation techniques—such as deep breathing, meditation, or listening to calming music—to help manage any anxiety. If possible, having a family member or friend accompany you can provide emotional support and help make the wait more tolerable.
Plan Ahead for Peak Times
Planning your visit to the emergency room can significantly impact wait times, particularly if the medical issue is not urgent.
Mondays tend to be the busiest day of the week in hospital emergency rooms. The accumulation of non-emergency cases over the weekend often result in a surge of patient volume on the first work day of the week. If your condition allows for flexibility in seeking care, consider the day of the week for your visit. Avoid Mondays and weekends.
Demand seasonality may also affect wait times in emergency rooms, particularly among younger patients. Young children, aged 0 to 5, see a rise in emergency visits during autumn, with a notable decline in the summer months. Children, aged 5 to 19, experience a peak in spring and a similar decrease in the summer.
The time of day is unlikely to significantly reduce wait times, as hospitals align staff availability with patient volumes. During standard business hours, from morning to early evening, full staffing is in place. However, higher patient volumes during these times can create bottlenecks. Even with more medical personnel, increased demand can still lead to longer waits as emergency rooms handle the influx of patients.
Consider Other Care Options
Not every health issue requires the full range of emergency room services. For non-life-threatening conditions, Los Angeles offers several alternative care options that can provide prompt, efficient, and cost-effective treatment.
Urgent care centers have become a popular alternative to emergency departments. Facilities such as those operated by Providence Urgent Care and local walk-in clinics throughout Los Angeles offer shorter wait times and lower costs compared to ER visits. These centers are ideal for treating minor injuries, respiratory infections, and other common ailments that do not require immediate, high-acuity care.
In addition to urgent care, community health centers and outpatient clinics provide routine services such as vaccinations, physical exams, and laboratory tests at a fraction of the cost of an ER visit. With the rapid expansion of telemedicine in Los Angeles, many healthcare providers now offer virtual consultations for non-emergency issues. This option allows you to receive medical advice, renew prescriptions, or obtain follow-up care from the comfort of your home, thereby reducing the need for an in-person visit.
Before opting for an alternative care option, verify that the facility is in-network with your insurance. In-network care typically results in lower out-of-pocket costs and more predictable billing. By comparing services and using online cost-estimation tools available from local providers, you can select the best option for your specific condition—ensuring you receive timely care without the long waits often associated with emergency rooms.
Regulatory Protections
Los Angeles residents are protected by a robust framework of federal and state regulations designed to ensure that you receive emergency care regardless of your financial situation. At the forefront is the Emergency Medical Treatment and Labor Act (EMTALA), a federal law that mandates all hospitals receiving Medicare funds to provide a medical screening exam and stabilize any emergency condition, regardless of your ability to pay.
Additionally, the federal No Surprises Act—implemented in 2022—protects you from unexpected, out-of-network bills for emergency services. Under this law, if you receive emergency care from an out-of-network provider at an in-network facility, you will only be responsible for in-network cost-sharing amounts, such as deductibles, copayments, and coinsurance.
California state law further reinforces these protections. In Los Angeles, hospitals are required to follow strict billing practices, ensuring transparency in pricing. Many Los Angeles hospitals now publish their standard charges online, allowing you to review pricing information in advance and better understand your potential financial obligations. If you believe you have been overcharged or have received a surprise bill, you can file a complaint with the California Department of Managed Health Care or contact the No Surprises Help Desk at 1-800-985-3059.
Advocate for Positive Change
Active patient advocacy is a vital tool in driving improvements within Los Angeles’s emergency care system. Your voice as a patient can help ensure that hospitals, insurers, and policymakers address issues such as extended wait times, rising costs, and inadequate staffing.
One of the most effective ways to advocate for change is to provide direct feedback to the hospitals where you receive care. Many leading institutions in Los Angeles, including Cedars-Sinai, UCLA, and Keck Hospital of USC, have established patient advisory councils and regularly conduct satisfaction surveys. Sharing your experiences—whether they highlight areas of excellence or pinpoint challenges—can help hospital administrators understand where improvements are needed and implement changes that benefit future patients.
Engaging with local elected officials is another important strategy. By reaching out to your city council members, county supervisors, or state legislators, you can express concerns about issues such as ER wait times, rising healthcare costs, and the need for increased staffing in emergency departments. Public pressure can lead to greater funding, enhanced resources, and legislative reforms that support a more efficient and patient-centered healthcare system. Consider attending town hall meetings, writing opinion pieces in local newspapers, or participating in community forums to share your experiences and suggestions.
Supporting local consumer advocacy organizations also makes a significant impact. Groups like the California Health Care Foundation and local patient rights organizations work tirelessly to promote transparency and protect consumers from unfair billing practices. Joining these organizations or participating in their events can amplify your voice and help drive systemic change in Los Angeles’s healthcare environment.
If you encounter billing errors or unexpected charges, do not hesitate to take action. Request an itemized bill, compare it with your insurer’s explanation of benefits, and file a complaint with the appropriate regulatory body if necessary. Online tools, such as price comparison websites and hospital standard charge listings, can help verify that you are being charged fairly. These proactive steps not only protect your financial interests but also contribute to broader efforts to improve accountability and transparency in the healthcare system.