Lay summary
This study will enable a comprehensive analysis of the impact of the 'Shorter Stays in Emergency Departments' health target on objective indicators of quality of care in NZ hospitals. A mixed methods approach using specific case studies will be employed to link target achievement to quality indicators as well as identify which management practices led to both success in achieving the target and improved quality of care. Findings from the research will provide timely and relevant information to allow health policy makers, District Health Boards and clinical leaders in Emergency Medicine to determine whether the introduction of this target had the desired outcome of improved quality of care in NZ Emergency Departments. This research will directly inform future health policy in this area.