A visit to the hospital is not exactly a fun time to begin with, but wait times can certainly make a visit to the ER even more unpleasant.
A recent study revealed some concerning information when it comes to ER/hospital wait times in New York State, and a risk ranking as compared to other states when it comes to hospital care.
Delayed Care in Hospitals Across The States
New research by Florida-based personal injury law firm FHV Legal took a look at performance data from several sources including Definitive Healthcare and Data.CMS.gov with regard to ‘timely diagnosis’ and risk factors state by state.
In New York, a ‘delayed care score’ of 77.90 ranked the state among the most critical for diagnostic lag. Ranking number seven across the states, those visiting New York hospitals are waiting an average of three hours and 12 minutes, a main factor impacting the diagnostic lag.
The research also indicated that 3% of patients leave New York emergency rooms without ever being seen by a provider, as well as a 14.59% readmission rate. The readmission rate includes ‘potential for incomplete initial diagnoses or premature patient discharge.’
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With a statewide average of approximately three hours in the ER, there are obviously certain areas of the state where waits are much longer, while other areas report lower wait times. Data published in the Times Union alleged that the Capital Region generally had the longest waits, and some New York City-based hospitals have reported wait times of up to 9 hours.
So why the wait? Highly populated areas such as New York City, Albany, even Westchester increase patient loads and can account for overcrowding. Also keep in mind staffing shortages continue to impact the medical field, and thus directly impact our ability to receive timely care.
Take a look below to see some of the most highly, and not so highly rated hospitals in New York State.
Fall 2025: These New York Hospitals Earn “A” Grades
Fall 2025: These New York Hospitals Earn Failing Or Near Failing Grades