There are many myths, misconceptions, and misunderstandings pertaining to freestanding emergency centers (FECs) in Texas, most of which have been blamed on the FECs themselves. As with any new industry, there is an obligation to educate the public and change their perception, which is exactly what TAFEC has worked hard to do through advocacy efforts, media relations, social media, community outreach and engagement, and facility tours. However, consumer confusion does not rest solely on FECs – other parties in the health care system are also responsible and must be held accountable. __________________________________________________________________________________________
Since the industry’s inception in 2009, FECs have been compared to urgent care facilities. Both FECs and urgent cares offer medical care in a similar setting – often in small buildings in community business parks and areas of commerce. While urgent care facilities and FECs are similar in appearance, they offer very different services.