Fast track in the emergency centre: efficient care for patients
PD Dr. med. Sima Djalali
October 6, 2025
5 min
With the opening of the new "fast track" in the interdisciplinary emergency centre, Zollikerberg Hospital is taking an important step towards managing the increasing demand in emergencies in an efficient and patient-oriented manner. The new treatment pathway enables patients with less complex but urgent concerns to be treated quickly and in a targeted manner, while at the same time relieving the pressure on the core emergency centre.
In an interview with PD Dr Sima Djalali, Head Physician, Department of Internal Medicine, Emergency Medicine, we find out what considerations were behind the project, how the fast track works in everyday life and what difference it makes for patients and the treatment team.
What exactly is a "fast track"?
The fast track is a separate treatment pathway within our emergency ward. It is specially designed for patients who need urgent medical clarification but whose symptoms are not life-threatening. This means they can be treated quickly and in a targeted manner.
Which patients specifically benefit from this?
For example, people with minor injuries such as cuts or sprains, with mild infections or cold symptoms. In other words, emergencies that require immediate assistance but can be treated on an outpatient basis.
Why did you introduce the fast track?
We see more patients in emergencies every year. With the fast track, we are creating additional capacity: Patients with minor emergencies wait less time, and at the same time our teams in the emergency core zone gain additional time for seriously ill people. Everyone benefits from this.
Do you have to register for the fast track?
No, that is not necessary. As usual, every patient is immediately triaged by experienced emergency staff when they register. This is where we decide which treatment pathway is the right one - fast track or core zone.
What advantage do patients have when they come to the fast track?
They receive fast, professional treatment from a specialised team in their own rooms. This means shorter waiting times, less stress for everyone involved and the certainty that every emergency concern will be taken seriously and treated competently.
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