Your ER Visit

Questions about the Lakeview ER, answered

A visit to the ER can be stressful and sudden. It’s helpful when you know what to expect beforehand, so you’re prepared and informed. We’ve answered some frequently asked questions about the Lakeview ER.

How do I find the current ER wait time?

We list the current ER wait time on our website. You also can text ER to 32222 to get a wait time estimate. Wait times can vary by location. They constantly change based on how many patients we have and their conditions.

When should I visit the ER vs. urgent care?

As a general rule, use the ER for lifesaving, serious medical care. Use urgent care for minor injuries and non-life-threatening medical conditions.

Learn more about when to visit the ER.

What do I bring to the ER?

If possible, bring the following with you to your ER visit:

• Personal identification such as a driver's license or passport
• A copy of your health insurance information
• A list of your current medications, including the dose and when you take them
• Any medical records from other providers you've seen

What will happen in the ER?

Your visit to the ER may look different, depending on your condition (did you drive yourself or come in an ambulance, for example?). The basic process involves:

• Check-in: When you arrive, you’ll complete a quick registration.
• Triage: You’ll meet with a triage nurse, who will assess your condition and decide how soon you need treatment.
• Medical exam or treatment: You’ll meet with an emergency medicine doctor, who will provide an exam and may order clinical tests, such as blood work or X-rays.
• Follow-up: When your doctor has any test results, they’ll contact your primary care provider or any specialists you may need. These providers determine if you can go home or need to be admitted to the hospital.

How long do ER visits take?

The time you spend in the ER depends on a few factors:

• Hospital processes
• The number of patients currently in the ER
• The severity of your condition and other patients’ conditions
• Staffing availability

Lakeview ER does offer the shortest average wait times in the Northshore—they’re often faster than local and national averages, too.

Does the Lakeview ER treat kids?

Yes, our hospital provides specialized treatment for children (pediatric patients) who have unique needs. We call it the superhero treatment, available 24/7.

Learn more about pediatric emergency care.

How much do ER visits cost?

The cost of an ER visit depends on the treatment you need, the providers involved in your care, and your health insurance coverage. You should always check with your insurance plan about the benefits they cover. Ask them about ER co-pays or costs and in-network and out-of-network costs.

View a list of accepted insurance plans at Lakeview Hospital.

Will insurance pay for my ER visit? What about Medicare or Medicaid?

Generally, Medicare Part B covers a medically necessary ER visit in the event that you are experiencing an injury or symptom(s) that a prudent layperson would view to be an emergency condition. An ER visit may subject you to out of pocket expenses, which may include copays for the visit and hospital services, applicable deductibles and a percentage of the Medicare-approved amount for services. Visit the Medicare website or your Medicare Advantage plan for more information.

Medicaid generally covers the cost of medically necessary emergency services in the event that you are experiencing an injury or symptom(s) that a prudent layperson would view to be an emergency condition. Outpatient and inpatient services may be subject to copays, deductibles and coinsurance as determined by your state agency. Visit Louisiana Medicaid for more information