給await: Urgent Care vs. ER

URGENT CARE vs. EMERGENCY
When you or a loved one is hurt, you want the best care. Deciding where to go isn’t always easy.

Sometimes, you may need care fast. But a trip to the ER may be unnecessary. You may want to try an urgent care center. They can treat minor ailments. Chances are, you won’t wait as long as at the ER. You may pay less, too.

An urgent care center can help with:

Sprains
Strains
Minor Broken Bones
Mild Asthma Attacks
Minor Infections
Small Cuts
Sore Throats
Rashes
Minor Burns
Urinary Tract Infections
Pelvic Infections

You may be tempted to go the Emergency Room (ER). But this may not be the best choice. At the ER, true emergencies are treated first. Other cases must wait—sometimes for hours. And, it may cost you more. What is a true emergency? Go to the ER for:

Heavy Bleeding
Large Open Wounds
Sudden Change in Vision
Chest Pain
Sudden Weakness
Trouble Breathing
Major Burns
Spinal Injuries
Severe Head Injury
Loss of Consciousness
Abdominal Pain
Of course, each case is unique. If a situation seems life threatening, take immediate action. Call 9-1-1 or your local emergency number right away.

If it’s not urgent, it’s usually best to go to your own doctor’s office. Your doctor knows you and your health history. He or she can access your medical records. And, he or she can provide follow-up care or refer you to specialists.

Unlike emergency rooms, Urgent Care Centers don't have laboratories on site for immediate results of blood tests. While we do have X-ray capability, we don't have Ultrasound, CT (CAT) scanners or MRI scanners.