When Urgent Care Is the Right Choice
Urgent care bridges the gap between your primary care doctor and the emergency room. It's ideal when you need care today but your condition isn't life-threatening.
Conditions Perfect for Urgent Care
- Respiratory: Cold, flu, cough, sore throat, sinus infection
- Infections: Ear infection, UTI, strep throat, pink eye
- Injuries: Sprains, strains, minor fractures, back pain
- Wounds: Cuts needing stitches, minor burns, animal bites
- Skin: Rashes, insect bites, poison ivy, minor allergic reactions
- Other: Fever, vomiting, diarrhea, dehydration
When to Go to the Emergency Room
Call 911 or go to the ER immediately for:
- Chest pain or pressure
- Difficulty breathing or shortness of breath
- Stroke signs: Sudden weakness, confusion, slurred speech
- Severe bleeding that won't stop with pressure
- Major trauma: Car accidents, falls from height
- Head injuries with loss of consciousness
- Severe allergic reactions (anaphylaxis)
- Suicidal thoughts or psychiatric emergencies
Decision Guide
| Symptom | Urgent Care | ER |
|---|---|---|
| Fever under 104°F | ✓ | |
| Fever over 104°F or with stiff neck | ✓ | |
| Cut needing stitches | ✓ | |
| Deep wound with heavy bleeding | ✓ | |
| Possible broken bone | ✓ | |
| Obvious deformity/bone through skin | ✓ | |
| Mild allergic reaction | ✓ | |
| Throat swelling/can't breathe | ✓ |
Benefits of Choosing Urgent Care
- Shorter wait: 15-45 minutes vs 2-4+ hours at ER
- Lower cost: $100-$250 vs $1,000-$3,000+ at ER
- Convenient hours: Open evenings and weekends
- No appointment: Walk in anytime during hours