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Log In to MyCovenantHealthWait times in hospital emergency departments vary depending on the urgency of patients’ medical needs so those with the most serious conditions can receive prompt care. Patients who need emergency but non-life-threatening care at Morristown-Hamblen West can now use “Emergency Call Ahead” to reserve their place “in line” before coming to the free-standing ED at 653 Merchants Greene Blvd. in Morristown.
“With this new, innovative call-ahead program, you can call and let us know you want to be evaluated so we can better prepare for your arrival,” explained Sonya R. Johnson, RN, BSN, CEN, emergency room nurse manager at Covenant Health’s Morristown-Hamblen Healthcare System. “We’ll let you know our current wait time and place you on the list of patients waiting to be seen. We will call you when your turn is approaching, allowing time for your arrival,”
The Emergency Call Ahead number is 423-492-6906. Patients can use the service to learn wait times and be placed “in line” at the Morristown-Hamblen West ED. Reserving a place in line is currently limited to Morristown-Hamblen West ED, but patients can also get wait time information for the emergency department at Morristown-Hamblen Healthcare System’s main hospital. The Call Ahead program will expand to include both ED locations in the future.
“Waiting is hard, and waiting when you don’t feel well can be harder. We at Morristown-Hamblen want to do all we can to ensure your comfort and help minimize your wait time,” Johnson said. Covenant Health hospitals make every effort to see emergency patients quickly and to make wait times as comfortable as possible. Many patients continue to receive care while they are waiting for a room.
Emergency Call Ahead or 911?
Johnson emphasized, “This program is designed for non-emergent patients, such as those with simple broken bones, simple lacerations, sprains or strains, sore throat, earaches, or those experiencing cold, COVID and flu symptoms. It is NOT intended to replace a call to 911 for anyone who thinks they are experiencing a life-threatening medical emergency.”
Because emergency department volumes and patient needs can fluctuate, there is no guarantee of wait time. But the call-ahead service “will save your spot in line and allow you to wait in the comfort of your home,” Johnson said.
For minor, non-life-threatening conditions, you are always encouraged to get care at an urgent care or walk-in clinic, or to see a primary care physician before coming to the emergency room. However, if a trip to the emergency room is needed, call Morristown-Hamblen’s Emergency Call Ahead Program at 423-492-6906 – we’ll be waiting for you.
