Sovereign Sisters Podcast | Episode 22 | A Wake-Up Call: My Journey Through the ER and Vision for Change

I want to share an interesting and rather enlightening experience I had this week during a visit to the ER. Watch the latest recording of the Sovereign Sisters Podcast as I delve into what’s working, what’s not, and explore some thoughts on how we can improve our healthcare system.

The Incident

It all started with an insect bite I treated naturally, believing the worst was over. But as days passed, symptoms worsened, and despite my efforts with natural and homeopathic remedies, I was left struggling. Eventually, my naturopath suggested I seek emergency medical help due to suspected cellulitis.

The ER Experience

Arriving at the ER, I was swiftly moved to a gurney for a cardiovascular workup. I spent hours there, amidst pain and discomfort, waiting for care. My husband was my only source of comfort, bringing me water and keeping me company. Despite the hard work of the ER staff, the environment felt chaotic and unproductive.

The Diagnosis

After a series of tests and an eight-hour wait, a doctor confirmed the diagnosis my naturopath had already given. They provided the necessary treatment, which brought relief, but the experience left me pondering the inefficiencies of our ER system.

Identifying the Issues

Many non-emergency cases flood the ER, leading to long waits and overwhelmed staff. I wondered if having healthcare students or retired professionals help with minor cases could ease this burden. Segregating non-emergent patients into a different area might also help prioritize those in critical need.

A Community Approach

My experience wasn’t isolated; I saw many elderly patients waiting for hours without adequate attention. This highlighted a significant issue: our healthcare system often neglects those who aren’t in immediate danger but still need care and compassion.

We need a community-focused approach, integrating volunteers and healthcare students to assist with non-emergent cases. This could alleviate the pressure on ERs and ensure that everyone receives timely and compassionate care.

Final Thoughts

Let’s come together to find solutions, support each other, and rebuild our sense of community. If you have any thoughts or experiences with the ER, I’d love to hear from you. How can we improve and make our healthcare system more efficient and humane?

Let’s strive to be true humanitarians, one community at a time.