Involvement of NGO in the Care of Indigent Patients in Emergency Department: A Systematic Review
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.5281/Keywords:
NGOs, indigent patients, emergency department, healthcare access, systematic reviewAbstract
Background: Indigent patients those who lack financial means, social support, or stable housing often present unique challenges in emergency departments (EDs). Non-Governmental Organizations (NGOs) have emerged as critical stakeholders in providing holistic care for this vulnerable population, addressing medical, psychosocial, and logistical needs. Objective: This systematic review examines the extent of NGO involvement in the care of indigent patients in EDs, focusing on their roles, challenges, and impact on patient outcomes. Methods: A systematic literature search was conducted across PubMed, and Google Scholar using keywords such as “indigent patients AND emergency medical care” AND “non-governmental organizations”. Peer-reviewed articles, reports, and case studies published in the last few years were included. The data were synthesized to identify trends in NGO participation, their strategies, and their integration with healthcare services. Results: The review identified three primary roles of NGOs in ED care: (1) provision of immediate relief services, such as food, clothing, and temporary shelter; (2) facilitation of long-term support through rehabilitation programs and legal aid (3) advocacy for policy reforms to ensure sustainable care. Successful collaborations were marked by well-defined roles and effective communication between ED staff and NGOs. Challenges included inconsistent funding, lack of training, and gaps in care coordination. Evidence highlighted that NGO involvement improved patient satisfaction, and enhanced access to follow-up care. Conclusion: NGOs play a vital role in bridging care gaps for indigent patients in EDs. Strengthening partnerships between healthcare institutions and NGOs through training, funding, and policy support can optimize outcomes for this vulnerable population.
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Copyright (c) 2025 Rajiv Ratan Singh, Shobhit Shakya, Pratibha Singh, Pradeep Kumar Yadav
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