Have you ever found yourself in a situation of not knowing if you should go to an urgent care or an emergency room?
While they seem similar, the two differ in several ways. Knowing where to go can help you save time and money.
Standalone ERs should be utilized by those experiencing life-threatening conditions. If you require immediate medical attention, the ER is your best bet. Urgent Cares, on the other hand, are the middle ground between your primary care physician (PCP) and the emergency room, according to Mayo Clinic. If the injury or illness is not life-threatening but it can’t wait until you can see your PCP, head to an Urgent Care. The following list goes into detail on some factors to consider before choosing where to go.
Standalone ER
Severity: Life-threatening conditions such as chest pain, severe abdominal pain, head injuries, and uncontrolled bleeding
Hours: 24/7
Cost: More expensive due to a higher level of care and resources available
Staffing: Board-certified emergency physicians and nurses trained in emergency care
Urgent Care
Severity: Mild conditions like sprains, minor cuts, urinary tract infections, and earaches
Hours: Typically operate during normal business hours with some weekend and evening hours; not 24/7
Cost: Less expensive than ERs; shorter wait times
Staffing: Mainly physician assistants (PAs), nurse practitioners, and sometimes physicians
The next time you find yourself in a situation trying to decide where to go, reference this list so you can make the best decision based on your needs.