Whether you suddenly have stomach pain, or your child is hurt in a skateboard fall, few things are as stressful as a health event that requires immediate care. Do you go to the ER? Head to an urgent care center or a walk-in clinic? Knowing where to go — quickly — can mean better outcomes, both in terms of health and treatment costs. This short video can help you make the best choice in the moment.
Emergency Room: At the ER, the more severe the condition, the sooner the patient will see a doctor.
Urgent Care: Urgent care typically works on a first-come, first-served basis.
Emergency Room:
If you experience something unexpected…
- Chest pain
- Difficulty breathing
- Severe bleeding
Go to the ER, where there’s a wider range of specialists and treatment options.
If you experience non-life-threatening symptoms like…
- Allergies
- Headache
- Rash
- Fever
Urgent care it is.
Keep in mind, many minor conditions can also be treated at a retail clinic in your local pharmacy. Knowing where to go can save you time and money.
But when in doubt…
Intense and immediate symptoms or injury = ER.
Gradually increasing symptoms = Urgent care center.
