Urgent Care – Healthcare Economist

Does the arrival of urgent care centers reduce the acuity of visits at nearby EDs?

2021-02-182021-02-18Jason ShafrinLeave a comment

Urgent care centers are on the rise. Back in 2013, there were only 6,100, but this number increased to 9,616 by late 2019 a 7.9% average annual increase. The rise of urgent care could have positive or negative impacts on overall health care spending. On the one hand, increased supply could lead to higher cost…

Can closing a hospital improve the quality of care?

2012-10-10Jason Shafrin2 Comments

The closing of St. Vincent’s Hospital in the Village in New York City at first glance would reduce access to care for New York residents living in the area. To fill the void, however, a number of non-traditional providers have entered to fill the space. For instance, the number of stand-alone urgent care centers are…