It’s inevitable. Someone is going to get sick, break an arm or be wounded in some way shape or form. You can’t rush to the hospital every time one of these instances pop up (hint: they usually pop up at the worst times, too). Where do you go? Should you go to an emergency room (ER) or make an urgent care visit?
That all depends on the severity of the issue. True life-threatening situations, such as poisoning, seizures and convulsions or chest pain and pressure can be signals that an ER is the right choice. It makes sense to avoid the ER if possible, though. There are typically long waiting periods, sometimes many hours as they take the most severe cases first. So, if your situation is not severe, an urgent care visit may be what you need.
Convenience
Your physician has set hours and the ER could end up not being the best choice for you. In those cases, an urgent care visit can help get the problem solved quickly. Of course, you’d like to see your doctor, but urgent care centers often have extended hours, making a visit there more convenient and relevant for your needs. Many have online check in, so you can wait for your turn in the comfort of your home instead of in a waiting room.
Urgent Care Visits
Remember to make an urgent care visit only in the case where it is NOT a life-threatening emergency, but medical attention is needed within a 24-hour period.
- Eye irritations
- Sore throat or cough
- Sprains or strains
- Vomiting, dehydration or diarrhea
- Fever or flu
- Cuts without excessive bleeding but may need stitches.
The Best Care
When you visit Family Diagnostic Clinic, you can be sure that we take your situation seriously and are standing by to deliver top-notch medical care. We accept most insurances and even have payment plans to fit your needs. Visit us in our Tomball or Houston locations. You can even book online!