Emergency Department Trends and Outcomes: A Data-Driven Analysis

Abstract

This study analyzes hospital Emergency Department (ED) data from 2016 to 2024, examining trends in Waiting Times (WT), Lengths of Stay (LoS), and patient outcomes. WT and LoS increased after the pandemic, indicating operational issues, even though patient volumes remained consistent throughout the whole period. Longer delays were observed on weekends and throughout the colder months, according to temporal analysis. Younger age groups and NZ European/Pākehā and Māori populations dominated ED visits, with older patients experiencing higher mortality rates. Mortality analysis revealed an inverse relationship between WT and patient mortality, with extended LoS correlating with increased severity. The results emphasize the use of predictive analytics to enhance healthcare equity and optimize ED operations.