Urgent Care or ER?
It’s important to get emergency care when you need it, but it’s not your only option for after-hours care when it’s not a true emergency.
Emergency room: If a life, limb or organ is at risk, always go to the ER. See the list below for specific symptoms and conditions.
Urgent care: Go to a same-day urgent care clinic for any medical problems or everyday illnesses or injuries that you might see a primary care doctor for (if they were available). See below for common reasons to visit a walk-in clinic.
When to Go to the ER
When to Go to the ER
- Chest pains, difficulty breathing or heart attack
- Slurred speech or weakness/numbness on one side
- Eye and head injuries, including potential concussions
- Major trauma
- Fever with a rash
- Seizures
- Severe cuts or broken bones
- Serious burns
Common Urgent Care Conditions
Common Urgent Care Conditions
- Acid reflux
- Cold or flu
- Cold sores
- Diarrhea
- Fever
- Headache
- Insect or animal bites
- Minor burns, cuts or rashes
- Pink eye
- Seasonal allergies
- Sinus infection
- Sprains and strains
- Stomachache
- Urinary tract infections
Not Available at Urgent Care
Not Available at Urgent Care
- Care for stroke, heart attack or major trauma – and anything listed under ER above
- Physicals and checkups
- CT scans and MRIs
- Routine immunizations
- Prescription refills
