Inter-regional disparities in emergency department utilization among critically ill patients: A nationwide study from South Korea

Inter-regional ED utilization was more likely among men, younger and middle-aged adults, high-acuity patients, and those arriving by ambulance or transferred from another hospital, while Medical Aid patients were less likely to receive such care. These findings highlight the importance of strengthening local emergency capacity, optimizing referral and transfer pathways, and implementing region-specific strategies alongside nationwide initiatives.