How to Decide Between Urgent Care and the ER

When an illness or injury strikes you need to decide exactly where you should seek help. It can all feel very confusing. You may be wondering if you should rush to the emergency room or head out to your nearest urgent care clinic for help. 

When you have to make such a big decision it’s important that you make the right choice because it can save you money, time, and even your health. When you understand the difference between the two it is going to help you to make a confident, uninformed decision. This is especially important when every minute counts

When Urgent Care Is the Right Choice

Urgent care centers have been designed to handle non life-threatening medical issues that often require prompt attention. If you’ve got a sprain, infection or a minor fever then an urgent care clinic will be able to treat you very quickly. You don’t need an appointment to do this. 

Many centers offer vaccinations, x-rays as well as lab tests. The best part about this is that they are typically open on evenings and weekends and this is convenient when your regular doctor's office is closed. 

If you have minor injuries or a less urgent need then urgent care offers you an efficient and affordable way to get high levels of treatment without having to go to the ER.

When the ER Is Absolutely Necessary

There will be times when only an emergency room is going to be able to give you the care that you need. If you experience severe chest pain, bleeding or head trauma then you need to go to the ER immediately. 

Hospitals have been equipped with advice technology so they can respond to life-threatening emergencies or right around the clock. The key is to make sure that you are recognizing when a condition poses an immediate danger to your life, as well as your long-term health. When these moments occur, you should choose the ER over urgent care.

Considering Cost and Convenience

Another major factor that you really should consider is cost. Emergency room visits tend to be far more expensive than urgent care, this is especially true for minor injuries. Insurance companies often encourage patients to use urgent care facilities when it is appropriate because it reduces medical costs.

This means that you can get the care you need very quickly and get back to your regular life as soon as possible. Balancing cost, and medical urgency can help you to make the best decision in your situation.

Building a Plan Before You Need It

The worst time to decide where you want to go for your care is when you need it. At this time you will probably be stressed. Go ahead and take the time right now to locate the nearest urgent care center and emergency hospitals near you. 

Put these phone numbers and the hours of operation into your phone. Knowing your options well in advance can help you deal with any health issues accurately and calmly. This will ensure that you get the best care when any health issue arises.