Unfortunately, I've have quite a few trips to the ER here in the US because of severe food allergies.... from what I've seen and experienced, the severity of condition determines how long you wait. My "ohmigosh-i-can't-breathe" allergy experience got me past everyone, past the paperwork desk, and into care immediately... my "oopsIcan't-tell-if-it's-a-reaction-or-not" time got me a place at the end of the line, and I was able to leave without care, because the reaction never blew up past something treatable with allergy medicine. Also, in my area, there are two hospitals within 5 miles of each other. One is always crowded, and the other has been pretty empty. The crowded one has an affiliation with a big HMO, is a not-for-profit hospital. The emptier one is a private "Saint something or other" hospital... Not sure what this has to do with anything, but the difference is noticable. I don't want to fan any war about which health care system is better, but I truly appreciate the care I have received here in the US. I've seen some not so great things, but by far, my life has literally been saved by fast thinking and acting doctors here. :rose:blueSprite