Definition of Emergency Medicine

This SAEM position paper clarifies the role of emergency medicine in health care delivery. It builds upon the working definition of emergency medicine developed by the American College of Emergency Physicians in 1994 by describing the health care role of emergency physicians (EPs). EPs are first-contact providers who care for all patients regardless of age, gender, time of presentation, or ability to pay. They remain the only continuously accessible specialty for patients seeking help and solace in the health care system. They are an essential link in the health care continuum between primary care physicians, specialists, the out-of-hospital system, the patient, inpatient services, and communication services. The EP's role is in organizing and monitoring the emergency care delivery system. Part of this role is to better align the health care provider training and ability with the specific medical needs of a patient. The emergency health care system remains the essential medical safety net for all individuals needing care in this country.