Rapid Treatment Zone
Fast-track area providing timely treatment for minor injuries and illnesses.
Providing Rapid Treatment for Emergencies
When you need care fast, the Rapid Treatment Zone (RTZ) is here to help. Located within the East Alabama Medical Center (EAMC) Emergency Department, the RTZ is a specialized area with a six-patient capacity, designed to treat non-life-threatening conditions quickly and efficiently. It’s emergency care made faster, without compromising quality.
How does the Rapid Treatment Zone work?
The Rapid Treatment Zone (RTZ) provides efficient and timely treatment for minor injuries or illnesses. Any patient that enters the EAMC Emergency Department will receive treatment according to the severity of their condition. The RTZ is staffed daily from 9 a.m. to 9 p.m.
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Arrival
Patient arrives at the emergency department with an illness or injury.
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Triage
The patient is then registered and triaged to determine the urgency of the illness or injury.
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Treatment
A patient with less complex needs will be moved to the Rapid Treatment Zone to be evaluated and treated .
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Testing
Based on their condition, a patient may need additional testing like x-rays or lab specimens. Once additional testing has been completed, patients will return to the Rapid Treatment Zone to await results.
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Consultation
An emergency department team member will explain test results and answer any questions the patient may have.
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Discharge
The patient will then be discharged with instructions to health at home and seek follow-up care if necessary.
Frequently Asked Questions
The RTZ is a specialized treatment area within the EAMC Emergency Department designed to quickly treat patients with less severe illnesses or injuries. It helps reduce waiting times for non-critical care while freeing up emergency rooms for more serious cases.
The RTZ is ideal for minor emergencies, such as:
- Sprains
- Cuts and lacerations
- Mild allergic reactions
- Ear infections
- Cold and flu symptoms
- Rashes and skin irritations
- Other minor conditions
When you arrive at the EAMC Emergency Department, a quick medical assessment helps us understand how serious your condition is. If your needs are less urgent, you may be treated in our Rapid Treatment Zone (RTZ) to help you get in and out faster. The RTZ is staffed daily from 9 a.m. to 9 p.m.
Yes. If your provider determines you need additional tests, imaging, or medications, they will be arranged promptly.
Wait times vary, but patients in the RTZ are typically seen quickly. Our goal is to treat RTZ patients as efficiently and comfortably as possible, allowing them to return to their normal routines.
Award Winning Emergency Care
In 2025, the EAMC Emergency Department was honored with the Lantern Award from the Emergency Nurses Association (ENA), recognizing our exceptional and innovative performance in leadership, clinical practice, education, advocacy, and research. We are proud to be one of only 96 emergency departments nationwide to receive this prestigious award in 2025.