Description

For sample adults and sample children who had at least one emergency room (ER) visit in the past year, ERLCLOSEST indicates the reason for the most recent ER visit was because ER is the closest provider.

For related variables and more information, please use the IPUMS NHIS search function and drop-down menus, or see ERLAMBUL, which reports that the reason for the last ER visit was because the respondent arrived at the ER by ambulance or other emergency vehicle.

This variable can be used to monitor the effects of the Affordable Care Act (ACA).

Comparability

This variable was introduced in 2011. Beginning in 2011 and continuing in Quarter 1 of 2012, this question was only asked of sample adults and sample children who had at least one ER visit in the past year and the most recent visit did not result in a hospital admission. Beginning in Quarter 2 of 2012, the restriction based on hospital admission was removed, so that all sample adults and sample children with at least one ER visit in the past year were asked the reason for their visit.

Universe

Availability

• 2011-2017

Weights

• 2011-2017 : SAMPWEIGHT