Urgent Care, Your Doctor or the Emergency Room? Choosing Where to Go

When it is an emergency

MedlinePlus says that if a person (or unborn baby) could die or be permanently disabled, it is an emergency. It advises calling 911 so the emergency team comes to you for problems such as:

• choking, stopped breathing, or severe trouble breathing;
• a head injury with passing out, fainting or confusion;
• injury to the neck or spine, especially with loss of feeling or movement;
• a seizure lasting more than a minute, or after which the person does not quickly wake;
• suddenly being unable to speak, see, walk or move, or sudden weakness or drooping on one side of the body.

MedlinePlus lists other problems that need the emergency department, such as a sudden unusual or bad headache, a possible broken bone with loss of movement, a severe allergic reaction with trouble breathing, and poisoning or overdose.

If you or someone you know is thinking about suicide or self-harm, call or text 988 to reach the 988 Suicide and Crisis Lifeline, which offers free, confidential support at any time.

When urgent care fits

MedlinePlus says that if a problem is not life-threatening or risking disability, but you are concerned and can’t see your provider soon enough, an urgent care clinic is an option. Examples it gives include common mild illnesses such as colds, flu, earaches and sore throats, and minor injuries such as sprains, minor cuts and burns, or minor broken bones.

When to call your own provider first

If you aren’t sure what to do and don’t have one of the serious problems above, MedlinePlus suggests calling your provider. If the office is closed, the call may be forwarded to someone on call. Many insurers and employers also run a nurse advice line. MedlinePlus suggests saving these numbers in your phone before you need them, and checking your insurer’s website to learn your options.

Cost matters too

MedlinePlus notes that emergency department care can cost two to three times as much, or more, than the same care in a provider’s office, and your insurance may require a higher copayment there. That is a reason to plan ahead for non-emergencies — never a reason to delay emergency care.

Going to urgent care: what to bring

• Photo ID and insurance card.
• A list of your medicines and allergies.
• Your regular provider’s name, so records can be shared.

Many urgent care clinics accept walk-ins, and some let you reserve a time or check in online — check the clinic’s own website. Afterwards, tell your regular provider about the visit and arrange any follow-up they recommend.