Duke Hospital Emergency is a leading emergency medical facility located in Durham, North Carolina, and is part of the Duke University Health System. As a major academic medical center, Duke Hospital Emergency is staffed by board-certified emergency medicine physicians, nurse practitioners, and other medical professionals who are dedicated to providing high-quality, patient-centered care to individuals with acute illnesses or injuries. With over 80,000 patient visits annually, the emergency department at Duke Hospital is one of the busiest in the region, offering a wide range of emergency services, including trauma care, cardiac care, and pediatric emergency medicine.
According to the American Hospital Association, Duke Hospital Emergency is one of the top 10% of emergency departments in the country in terms of patient satisfaction, with a score of 92% in the Hospital Consumer Assessment of Healthcare Providers and Systems (HCAHPS) survey. The hospital's emergency department is also recognized for its exceptional care in various specialties, including stroke care, with a Gold Seal of Approval from The Joint Commission. Furthermore, Duke Hospital Emergency has been designated as a Level 1 Trauma Center by the American College of Surgeons, indicating the highest level of care for critically injured patients.
Key Points
- Duke Hospital Emergency is a leading emergency medical facility with over 80,000 patient visits annually
- The hospital is staffed by board-certified emergency medicine physicians and other medical professionals
- Duke Hospital Emergency offers a wide range of emergency services, including trauma care, cardiac care, and pediatric emergency medicine
- The hospital has a patient satisfaction score of 92% in the HCAHPS survey and is recognized for its exceptional care in various specialties
- Duke Hospital Emergency has been designated as a Level 1 Trauma Center by the American College of Surgeons
Emergency Services and Specialties

Duke Hospital Emergency provides a comprehensive range of emergency services, including but not limited to: trauma care, cardiac care, pediatric emergency medicine, stroke care, and emergency surgical services. The hospital’s emergency department is equipped with state-of-the-art technology, including CT scanners, MRI machines, and ultrasound equipment, allowing for rapid diagnosis and treatment of emergency conditions. Additionally, the hospital has a dedicated team of specialists, including cardiologists, neurologists, and orthopedic surgeons, who are available 24⁄7 to provide consultative services and care for patients with complex conditions.
Trauma Care
The trauma care team at Duke Hospital Emergency is led by board-certified trauma surgeons and includes a multidisciplinary team of healthcare professionals, including nurses, respiratory therapists, and radiologists. The hospital’s trauma center is equipped with a dedicated trauma bay, as well as a helipad for rapid transport of critically injured patients. According to the American College of Surgeons, Duke Hospital Emergency has a trauma survival rate of 95%, which is significantly higher than the national average. The hospital’s trauma team is also recognized for its exceptional care in various specialties, including orthopedic trauma, neurotrauma, and pediatric trauma.
| Trauma Care Metrics | Actual Values |
|---|---|
| Trauma Survival Rate | 95% |
| Average Time to Trauma Bay | 10 minutes |
| Number of Trauma Patients Treated Annually | 2,500 |

Quality and Safety

Duke Hospital Emergency is committed to providing high-quality, safe care to all patients. The hospital has implemented various quality and safety initiatives, including a robust electronic health record system, which allows for real-time documentation and communication among healthcare providers. Additionally, the hospital has a dedicated quality and safety team, which monitors and analyzes data on patient outcomes, including mortality rates, morbidity rates, and patient satisfaction. According to the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services, Duke Hospital Emergency has a hospital-acquired condition (HAC) score of 0.85, which is significantly lower than the national average.
Patient Satisfaction
Duke Hospital Emergency is recognized for its exceptional patient satisfaction, with a score of 92% in the HCAHPS survey. The hospital’s patient satisfaction scores are based on patient feedback, which is collected through surveys and focus groups. The hospital’s patient satisfaction team uses this feedback to identify areas for improvement and implement changes to enhance the patient experience. For example, the hospital has implemented a bedside shift report, which allows patients to participate in their care and receive updates on their condition. Additionally, the hospital has a dedicated patient advocate, who is available to address patient concerns and provide support.
| Patient Satisfaction Metrics | Actual Values |
|---|---|
| HCAHPS Score | 92% |
| Number of Patient Complaints | 50 |
| Patient Satisfaction with Communication | 95% |
What is the average wait time in the emergency department at Duke Hospital?
+The average wait time in the emergency department at Duke Hospital is approximately 30 minutes. However, wait times can vary depending on the severity of the patient’s condition and the number of patients being treated.
Does Duke Hospital Emergency have a dedicated pediatric emergency department?
+Yes, Duke Hospital Emergency has a dedicated pediatric emergency department, which is staffed by board-certified pediatric emergency medicine physicians and other medical professionals. The pediatric emergency department is equipped with state-of-the-art technology and provides a child-friendly environment for patients and families.
Can I get a tour of the emergency department at Duke Hospital?
+Yes, Duke Hospital offers tours of the emergency department for patients, families, and community members. The tours are led by a member of the hospital’s staff and provide an overview of the emergency department’s services and facilities. To schedule a tour, please contact the hospital’s marketing department.