In this paper, we examine the perception that emergency care is unusua
lly expensive, We discuss the myths that have fueled the ineffective a
nd sometimes deleterious efforts to limit access to emergency care, We
demonstrate the reasons why these efforts are seriously flawed and pr
opose alternate strategies that aim to improve outcomes, including coo
perative ventures between hospitals and managed care organizations, We
challenge managed care organizations and healthcare providers to coll
aborate and lead the drive to improve the cost and clinical effectiven
ess of emergency care.