Hiawatha ER Frequently Asked Questions
In an emergency, every second counts. Mercy’s new ER in Hiawatha is an innovative way to offer critical emergency services to patients who would otherwise need to travel additional time for this type of care. While it is the first of its kind in Iowa, this model has proven to be effective in many other states. The information below will help shed light on how this model can benefit patients seeking emergency care.
Is the Hiawatha ER equipped to handle any emergency?
Yes, both of Mercy’s ER locations are full service, open 24/7 and equipped to handle all types of emergencies.
Of course, Mercy’s Level 3 Trauma Center is directly connected to operating suites and the Cath Lab to care for major emergencies like strokes, heart attacks or any surgical needs.
The Mercy Hiawatha location has protocols in place with our emergency medical services (EMS) partners to ensure timely and proper care for any patient. The Hiawatha ER location is also located next to Mercy’s Imaging Center, should a patient require imaging as part of their visit.
Patients experiencing major health issues (such as heart attacks or conditions requiring admission to the hospital) have seen no delay at the Hiawatha ER location. In some cases, admission to the hospital has even occurred faster when patients visit the Hiawatha location first.
What if I need to be admitted to the hospital?
If patients need to be admitted to the hospital, the emergency staff at the Hiawatha ER are able to stabilize them quickly before they are transported and admitted to the hospital — in less total time (42 minutes on average) than they would even spend in the emergency department at other local ERs. Additionally, if a transport is necessary, the patient will be taken by ambulance to Mercy Medical Center at NO COST to the patient.
Is the Hiawatha ER as fast as Mercy's downtown ER?
Mercy has the area's fastest ER – at both locations. Mercy’s Hiawatha location simply offers patients another convenient option for their emergency needs with appropriate, timely care when they need it most. In fact, patients arriving at the Hiawatha ER location are typically placed in a room within 2 minutes and see a provider within 5 minutes.
Will my insurance cover the Hiawatha location?
Because the Mercy Hiawatha ER is an extension of Mercy Medical Center, insurance coverage is the same whether you visit our hospital location or the Hiawatha location.
Where should I go for urgent care for minor illnesses?
Mercy offers four convenient urgent care locations to provide immediate care for patients with minor illnesses or injuries. In addition, MercyCare Urgent Care offers 24/7 virtual visits for quality healthcare whenever you need it.
What have patients been saying?
Patient feedback with the new facility has been extremely positive. Specifically, patients love the quick, easy access and convenient location.
