All Hospitals Are Not the Same: 7-Step Guide to Navigating and Healthcare

All hospitals are not the same and understanding the differences can help you feel more informed when navigating healthcare whether for yourself or someone you care about. In this concise, approachable guide, Dr. Erica Royal draws on more than 30 years of clinical experience. Her background in hospital leadership, quality, and patient safety brings additional perspective to seven important things to know about hospitals and healthcare. Inside, you'll learn about: - The differences between primary care, urgent care, freestanding emergency departments, and hospital-based emergency departments. - Why hospitals vary in their services, specialists, and levels of care - How to become more familiar with healthcare resources in your community - Who may be part of your healthcare team - What information may be helpful to have organized - Why it is OK to ask questions and participate in your care >This guide is not about telling you what healthcare decisions to make. It is about helping you to better understand your options, ask informed questions, and feel more prepared when navigating an unfamiliar healthcare setting. Whether you are seeking care for yourself or helping a parent, spouse, relative, or friend, a little knowledge can make healthcare feel less overwhelming. You don't need to become a healthcare expert. You can simply be informed.