The model of emergency medicine enshrines the principles of universality, portability, freedom of choice, and equity in care for all those who walk through the door. Yet despite accounting for only 2% of healthcare costs nationwide, emergency departments receives criticism for contributing to the financial crisis of American health care. Are these criticisms justified, or does the ED coversely represent a potential solution?

Joining Dr. Matt Birnholz to discuss emergency medicine's current and future roles in healthcare policy, accounting, and quality improvement is Dr. James C. Mitchiner, attending emergency physician at St. Joseph Mercy Hospital in Ann Arbor and clinical assistant professor of emergency medicine at the University of Michigan Medical School. He is also medical director at Michigan’s federally designated health care quality improvement organization. Dr. Mitchiner received the Colin C. Rorrie Jr., PhD Award for Excellence in Health Policy for a career dedicated to advocating for more efficient, affordable healthcare in America.