Urgent Care Centers

Q: How do I know whether to go to an urgent care or an emergency room?

A: Anytime we are ill or injured, it feels like an emergency! The following guidelines can help determine whether emergency care is needed, or if urgent care might be a preferred alternative. Please keep in mind that these are only guidelines and are not intended as medical advice.

Urgent care is appropriate when medical care is needed within a few hours and when the person’s disorder is not threatening to life or function of the patient. For example:

•	Injuries such as sprains, simple fractures, cuts, bites, bruises and minor burns
•	Respiratory infections or allergies
•	Colds and flu-like symptoms
•	Headaches and body aches
In addition, our urgent care centers provide many routine care services, such as:

•	Pediatric care and well-baby checks and immunizations
•	Adult care for acute or chronic illness
•	Pap smears and routine gynecology
•	X-ray and laboratory services
•	Minor surgical procedures and casting

Emergency Rooms provide care and treatment for the patient requiring immediate medical care. Any delay in obtaining care for this patient may cause permanent or life-threatening consequences. For example:

•	Crushing chest pain or heart attacks
•	Large surface body bums
•	Loss of consciousness or coma
•	Severe, uncontrolled bleeding

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