Emergency Care Close to HomeSaint Joseph Hospital’s Emergency Room combines more than 150 years of compassionate care with advanced clinical expertise to provide exceptional, 24/7 emergency services in the heart of Denver. As the city’s largest private teaching hospital, our experienced team of board-certified emergency physicians, skilled nurses, and dedicated support staff deliver rapid, precise treatment for life-threatening conditions. With leading-edge technology, strong clinical partnerships, and a patient-centered approach rooted in our longstanding mission, we’re here to deliver the trusted care you need—when every moment matters. |
Saint Joseph Hospital’s Emergency Room can treat a wide variety of emergency conditions, including:
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Know Where to Go for CareKnowing when to visit the emergency room can be confusing. In many cases, a local urgent care, an Intermountain Health Walk-In Clinic, a virtual care visit, or your primary care provider may be the right choice. For serious or life-threatening conditions, the ER is the best place to go. But for less urgent needs, choosing the right care setting—whether that’s in person or online—can save you time and help you get care faster. |
Saint Joseph Hospital Emergency Room Accreditations and CertificationsLevel IV Trauma Center
 ACC Chest Pain Center
 NCDR Chest Pain – MI Registry Platinum Performance
 Certified Primary Stroke Center
 Forensic Nurse Examiner Program
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It was one of the best emergency room experiences I have ever had.Saint Joseph Hospital Emergency Room Patient, June 2026 |
Frequently asked questions regarding Saint Joseph Hospital's Emergency RoomWhat types of insurance are accepted?Saint Joseph Hospital’s Emergency Room accepts most major insurance plans. Because coverage can vary by plan and situation, we recommend being proactive and confirming your specific benefits with your insurance provider. Will I receive more than one bill for my emergency room visit?You may receive more than one bill when you receive care at Saint Joseph Hospital, since several providers may be involved in your treatment and bill independently. For example, independent specialists could include radiologists, emergency room physicians, and anesthesiologists. Some independent providers may not be covered under your insurance; check with your insurance carrier for coverage information. Review all bills you receive for appropriate contact information. If you have any questions regarding your bill from any provider, please contact the hospital or the physician's office listed on each statement for additional assistance. What should I expect during my emergency room visit?When you arrive, a triage nurse will quickly assess your symptoms and determine the level of care you need. Patients with the most serious conditions are seen first, but our team works hard to care for everyone as quickly as possible. Once you’re in an exam room, a provider will evaluate you, order any necessary tests, and keep you informed throughout your visit. After your results are ready, your care team will explain the next steps and whether you can go home or need further treatment. The average emergency department stay is 3–5 hours. Wait times may vary depending on your symptoms, the tests needed, and your personalized care plan. Critical patients or a high volume of patients may increase the length of your visit. Can someone stay with me while I’m in the emergency room?Yes, we generally allow one visitor at a time in the ER to help maintain a safe and calm environment for all patients. Exceptions may be made in certain situations based on patient needs and circumstances. Visitors are welcome 24 hours a day, 7 days a week while you are receiving care in the ER. How does triage work in the Emergency Room?Triage is the process we use to make sure every patient receives the right level of care as quickly as possible. When you arrive in the Emergency Room, a triage nurse will assess your symptoms, check your vital signs, and ask a few questions to understand what you’re experiencing. Patients with life‑threatening or severe conditions are treated first, while those with less urgent needs may wait longer. This helps us ensure that the most critical patients receive immediate attention. Throughout your visit, your care team continually monitors your condition and may adjust your priority level if your symptoms change. Will I be admitted to the hospital after my Emergency Room visit?Most patients who come to the Emergency Room are evaluated, treated, and able to return home the same day. Admission to the hospital only occurs if your care team determines that you need additional monitoring, testing, or treatment that cannot be provided in the ER. If admission is recommended, our team will explain the next steps, answer your questions, and help make the transition to an inpatient room as smooth and comfortable as possible. What specialists are available in the ER?Our Emergency Department has access to a wide range of specialized care. We have a Forensic Nursing Program staffed by a Forensic Nurse Examiner (FNE) to support patients who need specialized forensic services. In addition, we use telehealth and on-call specialist consultants, allowing our ER team to connect with a variety of specialists as needed to ensure you receive timely and appropriate care. Is language interpretation available?Yes. We offer free language interpretation services to ensure every patient can communicate clearly with their care team. Interpretation is available in multiple languages—both in person and through phone or video services—as well as American Sign Language. Just let a staff member know if you or a family member needs assistance, and we’ll connect you with an interpreter right away. What should I bring with me to the Emergency Room?Getting you fast and accurate care is our primary goal. Please consider bringing the following items with you:
If I’m being transported to the ER via ambulance, can I tell them which ER I want to go to?Yes, you can request a specific hospital, but paramedics prioritize the closest appropriate facility based on your medical needs. If you are stable and conscious, they will often accommodate your request if it is within a reasonable distance and suitable for your condition. When is the Emergency Room open?Saint Joseph Hospital’s Emergency Room is open 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. How long should I expect to be in the Emergency Room?The average ER stay is 3 – 5 hours. Wait time may vary depending on tests and care plan. Critical patients or a large volume of patients can increase the length of your visit. Average test result completion times:
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The staff was very professional and thorough. I was quite impressed and thankful for their help.Saint Joseph Hospital Emergency Room Patient, April 2026 |