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ER, urgent care or virtual visit? What to consider to help you save on costs

You slipped on the stairs and feel your ankle throbbing. Or your child spikes a high fever in the middle of the night. You call your primary care doctor first, but you can't get a same-day appointment. So do you go to the emergency room (ER) or urgent care? Or would a virtual visit work best?

If it’s not actually an emergency situation, rushing to the ER  can cost two to three times  more than care in a provider’s office. In addition, seeking care in the ER may mean longer wait times and an increased exposure to germs, plus potentially unnecessary tests or treatments. Using the ER for all your health care needs may also mean you’re missing an opportunity to create a long-term relationship with a primary care provider who can address preventive needs before more serious issues arise.

That’s why understanding the most appropriate care setting is an important step to help you receive the simplest experience for your situation.

Here’s what to consider when deciding where to go for care:

Urgent care center

Urgent care centers are not for emergencies but can help you when you need care quickly. If you can’t get in with your primary care physician, this may be another option. Remember, it’s first-come, first-served. You may consider urgent care if you have symptoms like the following:

• Fever without a rash
• Moderate flu-like symptoms
• Sprains and strains
• Small cuts that may require stiches

The average cost for an  urgent care visit is $185. 1

Emergency room

The hospital emergency room provides medical care for life-threatening injuries or illness. While some people may be tempted to utilize ER services because it’s open 24/7, the wait time is  typically two hours on average , and can vary greatly based on time of day and location. Patients with life-threatening emergencies or critical conditions will be treated first so if you’re experiencing a minor ailment, it may not be the best place to seek care. Some of the symptoms that require an emergency room visit include, but are not limited to:

• Slurred speech
• Serious burns
• Broken bones and dislocated joints
• Fever with a rash

The average cost for an  emergency room visit is $2,600 . 1

Have you considered a virtual visit?

If you are faced with a non-emergency health condition – like a migraine, possible COVID-19, sore throat or stomachache – but your doctor’s office is closed, you may consider a virtual visit. This allows you to virtually chat face-to-face with a doctor, day or night, and may save you up to $1,500 when compared to a visit to the ER. 2

The average cost for a  virtual visit is $54. 1

Still not sure?

UnitedHealthcare plan members can also compare quick care options with UnitedHealthcare’s  online resource , and get more information to help with  COVID-19 concerns . If you or a loved one are experiencing what you feel to be life-threatening symptoms other than those listed, go to the emergency room or call 9-1-1.

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The Ultimate Checklist: What to Bring to Urgent Care Visit

• Urgent care offers immediate medical attention for non-life-threatening conditions.
• Bring personal information, medical supplies, and comfort items for a comfortable visit.
• Follow COVID-19 precautions, choose the right clinic, and manage anxiety for a stress-free experience.

What is Urgent Care?

Personal information, what you need during your visit, prepare to talk about your symptoms and concerns, bringing comfort items, medical supplies, payment plans and financial assistance, prepare for aftercare or follow-up, urgent care vs. emergency room care, tips for managing anxiety or stress related to seeking medical care.

• Frequently Asked Questions

To make your visit to urgent care as smooth and efficient as possible, it's important to come prepared with everything you need.

To help you prepare for your next urgent care visit, we've put together the ultimate checklist of what to bring—from important medical information to comfort items that can help you pass the time. By bringing everything you need you can streamline your visit, reduce stress , and get back to feeling your best as soon as possible.

Urgent care is a type of medical facility that provides immediate medical attention for non-life-threatening illnesses or injuries. According to the Urgent Care Association, many urgent care clinics are open on weekends and offer extended hours to accommodate patients who need medical attention outside of regular business hours.

Urgent care clinics offer a wide range of medical services. Some of the services you may be able to get at urgent care include:

• Treatment for the symptoms of colds, flu , and COVID-19
• Mild to moderate allergic reactions
• Closed fractures
• Muscle sprains or strains
• Minor lacerations that may need stitches
• Minor burns
• STD testing and treatment
• Treatment for the symptoms of a UTI
• Mild to moderate infections
• Lab testing and imaging services
• Physicals for work, travel, or sports
• Immunizations

One of the unique benefits of urgent care clinics is that they offer walk-in appointments for most minor to moderate illnesses and injuries. Urgent care clinics also typically have shorter wait times than emergency rooms, according to the Urgent Care Association.

When you visit urgent care, you'll need to provide your personal information for billing purposes and also to help your urgent care provider make the right diagnosis. Here is a comprehensive list of what you will need for the check-in and registration process, according to ZocDoc.com:

• Identification - Bring a valid form of ID, such as a driver’s license or passport.
• Insurance information - Bring your insurance card if you have one.
• A form of payment, such as cash or credit card - Many urgent care clinics require a downpayment or co-pay at the time of service.
• Name and contact information for your emergency contact .
• A list of your current medications - This will help your healthcare provider understand your medical history and avoid any potential drug interactions.
• Your request for an interpreter if you need one .

When it comes time to visit with your urgent care provider, you will likely need to be prepared to answer questions about the following:

• Your past medical history, including details about any chronic conditions, surgeries, or hospitalizations you’ve had.
• Your medications, including herbal supplements and over-the-counter medications.
• Your allergies, including medication allergies, environmental allergies, and food allergies if applicable to your condition
• Your family history, especially major medical conditions, like heart disease and cancer

During your visit at urgent care, it's important to be prepared to discuss your symptoms and any concerns you may have with the healthcare provider. This will help ensure that you receive the most appropriate care and treatment.

How to Describe Your Symptoms

Be prepared to describe your symptoms in detail. This includes:

• When your symptoms started
• How often your symptoms occur
• Anything that makes your symptoms worse or better
• Home remedies or over-the-counter treatments that you have tried

Some symptoms will need specific details. For example, if you have a fever , be sure to mention what your temperature has been and how long you've had the fever. If you are having pain, it is important to describe what the pain feels like, where it is exactly, and when it started.

It can be helpful to create a timeline of your symptoms. This can include when they started, any changes in severity, and any treatments you've tried. All of this information can help the healthcare provider determine the cause of your symptoms and the best course of action.

When you're heading to urgent care, you want to make sure you're as comfortable as possible. Here are some items you should consider bringing along

• Comfortable clothing - Opt for loose-fitting clothing that won't constrict you or rub against any sensitive areas. You might also want to bring a sweater or jacket in case the waiting room is chilly.
• Water bottle - Staying hydrated is important, especially if you're not feeling well. Bring a water bottle with you so you can sip on water throughout your visit.
• Reading material or entertainmen t - Waiting can be boring, so bring along something to keep you entertained. A book, magazine, or even your phone can help pass the time. Just be mindful of any noise or distractions you might cause to others in the waiting room.

When preparing for a visit to urgent care, it's important to bring any necessary medical supplies to ensure a smooth visit. Here are some medical supplies that you should remember to bring with you:

• Inhaler - If you have asthma or other respiratory issues, it's important to bring your inhaler with you to urgent care.
• EpiPen - If you have a severe allergy , it's important to bring your EpiPen with you to urgent care.
• Blood glucose monitor - If you have diabetes, it's important to bring your blood glucose monitor with you to urgent care.

Other Necessary Medical Supplies

In addition to the above supplies, you may need to bring other necessary medical supplies, such as:

• Prescription medications
• Over-the-counter medications
• Medical devices (e.g. hearing aids, wheelchair)
• Medical records and documentation

If you are concerned about the cost of your visit, it's important to ask about payment plans or financial assistance options. Some urgent care clinics offer payment plans that allow you to pay off your bill over time. Others may offer financial assistance programs for those who qualify. It's important to ask about these options before your visit to ensure that you are prepared.

After you leave urgent care, it's important to follow any instructions provided by your healthcare provider to ensure a smooth recovery. Your healthcare provider may give you specific instructions to follow after your visit. These might include things like:

• Resting for a certain period of time
• Avoiding certain activities or foods
• Taking medication as prescribed
• Monitoring your symptoms and reporting any changes
• Coming back for a follow-up in a certain amount of time
• Consulting a specialist

If your healthcare provider prescribes medication, make sure you understand how and when to take it. Ask any questions you have about potential side effects or interactions with other medications you may be taking. Following these instructions carefully can help you avoid complications and promote healing.

While urgent care clinics can provide many of the same services as emergency rooms, there are some key differences to keep in mind. The first and most prominent difference is that urgent care clinics are designed for non-life and limb-threatening illnesses and injuries, while emergency rooms are equipped to handle more serious medical emergencies.

Another benefit of urgent care clinics is that they typically offer shorter wait times than emergency rooms, according to Urgent Care Association. However, wait times can vary depending on the clinic and the time of day. Some clinics also offer online scheduling options to help you save time.

Many urgent care clinics now offer telemedicine services, which allow you to consult with a healthcare provider remotely. This can be a convenient option if you are unable to visit a clinic in person.

If you experience anxiety or stress related to seeking medical care, there are a few strategies you can try, according to the Mayo Clinic. These may include deep breathing exercises, mindfulness meditation, or seeking support from a trusted friend or family member.

How to Choose an Urgent Care Facility

When choosing an urgent care clinic that is right for you, consider the clinic’s location, hours of operation, services offered, and their reputation. Check online reviews to see what past patients have to say, and call them to find out if they accept your insurance.

Frequently asked questions

What is urgent care and what services does it offer, what personal information do i need to provide when i visit an urgent care, what should i be prepared to discuss with my healthcare provider during my urgent care visit, what comfort items should i consider bringing to urgent care, what medical supplies should i bring to urgent care, what should i do if i am concerned about the cost of my urgent care visit, what should i do after my urgent care visit, how do urgent care clinics differ from emergency rooms.

Michael is an experienced healthcare marketer, husband and father of three. He has worked alongside healthcare leaders at Johns Hopkins, Cleveland Clinic, St. Luke's, Baylor Scott and White, HCA, and many more, and currently leads strategic growth at Solv.

Dr. Rob Rohatsch leverages his vast experience in ambulatory medicine, on-demand healthcare, and consumerism to spearhead strategic initiatives. With expertise in operations, revenue cycle management, and clinical practices, he also contributes his knowledge to the academic world, having served in the US Air Force and earned an MD from Jefferson Medical College. Presently, he is part of the faculty at the University of Tennessee's Haslam School of Business, teaching in the Executive MBA Program, and holds positions on various boards, including chairing The TJ Lobraico Foundation.

• What to Bring to Urgent Care. (June 21, 2023) https://www.zocdoc.com/blog/what-to-bring-to-an-urgent-care-visit/
• Stress Management. (June 21, 2023) https://www.mayoclinic.org/healthy-lifestyle/stress-management/multimedia/meditation/vid-20084741
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Do you know your urgent care options.

As a CCA member, you have several options available to you when you need urgent care. These include:

• Call your primary care physician (PCP). Your PCP can review your concerns and advise on what to do next.
• Get guidance from the CCA Nurse Advice Line. You can reach our team of nurses and behavioral health clinicians 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. Call 866-610-2273 whenever you have an unexpected health issue.
• Connect with a member of your care team. They are here to support your medical or behavioral health needs. You can reach them by calling 866-610-2273.
• Visit an urgent care center. Some centers may have walk-in visits available. If you need help finding an urgent care center, call CCA Member Services for help at: 866-610-2273.
• Be seen at home by instED® . When you call instED, a nurse will review your symptoms to ensure the service can support your needs. If yes, then within a few short hours, a paramedic will arrive at your home to take care of you. Contact instED by calling 833-946-7833 or by visiting www.insted.us to request a visit.

If you’re experiencing a medical emergency, call 911 right away.

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Home Health Resources Urgent Care Plan Your Urgent Care Visit: What to Expect and Benefits

Urgent Care

Plan your urgent care visit: what to expect and benefits.

Planning an urgent care visit can be a daunting task. From deciding if you should go to the emergency room or urgent care clinic, to understanding what kind of services are offered at each location – it’s important that you plan your urgent care visit in order to get the best medical treatment possible. In this blog post, we’ll discuss all aspects of planning for and visiting an urgent care clinic including: What is an Urgent Care Clinic? Preparing for Your Visit; During Your Visit; After Your Visit; and Advantages of Visiting an Urgent Care Clinic Over an Emergency Room. Read on as we explore how best to plan your urgent care visit so that you’re prepared for any situation!

Table of Contents:

Definition of an urgent care clinic, services offered at an urgent care clinic, benefits of visiting an urgent care clinic, preparing for your visit to the urgent care clinic, during your visit to the urgent care clinic, after your visit to the urgent care clinic, advantages of visiting an urgent care clinic over an emergency room, what are the most common urgent care visits, what is an example of urgent care, what is the goal of urgent care, how do i run a successful urgent care, what is an urgent care clinic.

An Urgent Care Clinic is a medical facility that provides immediate medical attention for non-life threatening illnesses and injuries. It is typically open seven days a week, with extended hours to accommodate patients who need care outside of regular office hours. The services offered at an urgent care clinic are similar to those provided by primary care physicians, but without the long wait times associated with traditional doctor’s offices or emergency rooms.

An Urgent Care Clinic is a walk-in health center that offers same day treatment for minor illnesses and injuries such as colds, flu, sprains, cuts and broken bones. They also provide routine checkups and vaccinations as well as diagnostic tests such as X-rays and lab work. Most clinics accept most major insurance plans including Medicare and Medicaid.

Urgent care clinics offer many of the same services found in traditional doctor’s offices including physical exams, immunizations, laboratory testing (such as blood work), X-rays and ultrasounds. In addition to these basic services they may also offer more specialized treatments like suturing wounds or setting fractures depending on the clinic’s capabilities. Some clinics even have pharmacies on site so you can get your prescriptions filled right away after your visit.

An urgent care clinic can provide a wide range of medical services, and is an excellent option for those with time-sensitive medical needs. With the right preparation, your visit to the urgent care clinic can be smooth and successful.

Preparing for your visit to the Urgent Care Clinic is an important step in ensuring that you receive the best care possible. Gather necessary information and documents before your appointment, such as insurance cards, medical history, and a list of medications you are currently taking. Make sure to bring any test results or imaging studies with you if applicable.

Make a list of symptoms and questions for the doctor prior to your visit so that you can make the most out of your time with them. Write down all relevant details about when symptoms began, how long they have been present, what makes them worse or better, etc., so that the doctor has all pertinent information at their disposal.

Researching your insurance coverage and costs ahead of time is also recommended, as it will help prevent unexpected expenses later on. Check with both your primary health insurer and urgent care clinic provider to find out what services are covered under each plan and whether there are any additional fees associated with certain treatments or procedures. Knowing this information beforehand will save time during the check-in process at the reception desk, which can be used more efficiently by meeting directly with the medical professional instead of waiting in line unnecessarily due to paperwork issues related to billing or insurance claims.

Preparing for your visit to the urgent care clinic is a crucial step in ensuring that you receive the best care possible. Now, let’s move on to discussing what happens during your visit.

Check In Process at the Reception Desk: Upon arrival, you will be asked to provide your insurance information and any other relevant documents. You may also need to fill out paperwork that includes personal information such as name, address, phone number, and emergency contact. The receptionist will then ask about your symptoms so they can direct you to the appropriate medical professional for treatment.

Meeting with the Medical Professional: Once you are checked in, a medical professional such as a nurse or doctor will meet with you to discuss your symptoms and health history. They may perform tests or order additional tests if needed. Depending on the severity of your condition, they may recommend further treatment or refer you to a specialist for more advanced care.

Before leaving the clinic, make sure that all instructions given by the medical staff are understood clearly and followed accordingly. These instructions could include taking medication prescribed by them or scheduling follow-up appointments if necessary. Additionally, it is important to keep track of any prescriptions filled at an urgent care clinic in case there are questions later on regarding dosage or side effects from medications taken during this visit

It is important to be prepared for your visit to the urgent care clinic, and understanding what will happen during your visit can help ensure that you get the best care possible. Now let’s look at what comes after your visit.

After your visit to the urgent care clinic, there are several steps you should take in order to ensure that your health and well-being is taken care of.

Follow Up Appointments or Tests: Depending on the diagnosis from your urgent care visit, you may need to schedule follow up appointments with a specialist or have additional tests done. It is important to keep track of any appointment times and test results so that you can stay informed about your health. If necessary, ask for copies of all documents related to your visit at the time of checkout.

Refill Prescriptions: If you were prescribed medication during your urgent care visit, make sure that it is filled as soon as possible. Most pharmacies will be able to fill prescriptions quickly and easily if they are given a copy at the time of checkout from the urgent care clinic. Additionally, some clinics offer online prescription refills which can save time when needed medications run out unexpectedly.

After leaving an urgent care clinic, it is normal for patients to have questions or concerns about their condition or treatment plan. Contacting the office with these questions can help provide clarity on what needs to be done next in terms of managing symptoms and following doctor’s orders properly. Many offices also offer after hours phone lines where nurses can answer basic medical questions without having an appointment scheduled first.

After your visit to the urgent care clinic, you should be aware of any follow up appointments or tests that may be necessary, as well as refilling prescriptions and contacting the office with questions or concerns. Now let’s look at the advantages of visiting an urgent care clinic over an emergency room.

Visiting an urgent care clinic instead of the emergency room can be a great way to save time and money. Urgent care clinics are designed for medical issues that require immediate attention, but are not life-threatening. Here are some advantages of visiting an urgent care clinic over an emergency room:

Cost Savings: The cost of visiting an urgent care clinic is typically much lower than going to the ER. Most insurance plans cover both services, however co-pays may vary depending on your plan. Additionally, many urgent care clinics offer discounts or payment plans if you don’t have insurance coverage.

Shorter Wait Times: Emergency rooms tend to be very busy and overcrowded due to their high volume of patients with serious illnesses or injuries. On the other hand, wait times at most urgent care clinics tend to be shorter because they only treat minor medical issues such as colds and flu symptoms, allergies, cuts and bruises etc., which do not require extensive treatment like those seen in ERs.

Since there are fewer patients in an urgent care setting compared to the ER, providers can spend more time getting to know each patient’s individual needs and providing personalized treatments accordingly. This also allows them more time for follow up visits if needed since they already have a good understanding of your condition from previous visits, making it easier for them to diagnose any new problems quickly without having to start from scratch every single visit.

FAQs in Relation to Plan Your Urgent Care Visit

The most common urgent care visits are related to allergies. Allergies can cause a range of symptoms, from mild discomfort to severe reactions that require immediate medical attention. Common allergy-related urgent care visits include respiratory issues such as asthma attacks and difficulty breathing, skin reactions like hives or rashes, and anaphylaxis which is a life-threatening allergic reaction. In addition, people may seek urgent care for other allergy-related issues such as eye irritation or sinus infections. It is important to be aware of the signs and symptoms of allergies so you can seek treatment quickly if needed.

Urgent care is a type of medical service that provides immediate, walk-in treatment for minor illnesses and injuries. It can include diagnosis and treatment of conditions such as colds, flu, ear infections, sprains or strains, cuts or burns. Urgent care centers are often open after regular doctor’s office hours and on weekends to provide quick access to medical attention without the need for an appointment. They also offer services such as X-rays and lab tests in order to diagnose any underlying issues quickly so that appropriate treatments can be prescribed if necessary.

The goal of urgent care is to provide timely medical treatment for illnesses and injuries that require immediate attention but are not serious enough to warrant a visit to the emergency room. Urgent care centers strive to offer quality healthcare services in an efficient, cost-effective manner. They can diagnose and treat common ailments such as colds, flu, minor cuts or burns, sprains and strains, ear infections, urinary tract infections, allergies and asthma attacks. In addition to providing diagnosis and treatment for these conditions they also provide preventive health services such as immunizations.

Running a successful urgent care requires careful planning and organization. First, it is important to have an experienced staff that can provide quality medical care in a timely manner. Second, having the right equipment and supplies on hand is essential for providing effective treatments. Third, developing relationships with local hospitals and specialists will help ensure referrals when needed. Finally, staying up-to-date on new technologies and treatments will help keep your practice competitive in the market. With these steps in place, you can create an efficient system that provides excellent patient care while keeping costs low.

By planning your visit ahead of time, you can ensure that you get the best possible care in a timely manner. Knowing what to expect during and after your visit will help make it easier for you to plan your urgent care visit and receive quality medical attention quickly.

If you are experiencing any side effects or symptoms from allergies, don’t wait to get help. Plan your visit to NextCare Urgent Care for fast and effective relief. Our experienced medical team is available seven days a week with extended hours so that you can be seen quickly when unexpected health issues arise. Don’t let allergies keep you down – come see us today!

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Choosing Urgent Care or Walk-In Clinic

Imagine feeling unwell and unsure whether to visit an urgent care center or a walk-in clinic. Many people face this common confusion, wondering which option is best suited for their medical needs. Understanding the differences between urgent care centers and walk-in clinics can help you make informed decisions about where to seek care. This article will guide you through the distinctions and benefits of each, enabling you to choose the right option for your situation. So, let’s dive into the comparison of urgent care vs walk-in clinic.

Urgent Care or Walk-In Clinic: Some Key Differences

Urgent care centers and walk-in clinics both offer convenient healthcare services without the need for appointments. However, there are important differences in the scope of services, hours of operation, and typical patient scenarios. The table below highlights these differences:

Urgent care centers, such as +MEDRITE Urgent Care, are ideal for treating more complex medical issues that require prompt attention but are not life-threatening. These centers are equipped with advanced diagnostic tools, including X-rays and lab tests, which allow for a more comprehensive evaluation and treatment. They are typically staffed by physicians and offer extended hours, including evenings and weekends, providing flexibility for patients who need care outside of regular business hours.

Walk-in clinics are a convenient option for minor illnesses and injuries that require quick medical attention. These clinics are usually located in retail settings, such as pharmacies or supermarkets, making them easily accessible. They are typically staffed by nurse practitioners or physician assistants and are suitable for treating common ailments like colds, flu, and minor cuts. Walk-in clinics generally have shorter wait times and lower costs compared to urgent care centers and emergency rooms.

When to Choose Urgent Care

Choosing urgent care is ideal when you need immediate medical attention for non-life-threatening conditions that require more comprehensive care than what a walk-in clinic can provide.

• Moderate to Severe Injuries: If you have a minor fracture, deep cuts requiring stitches, severe sprains, or burns that are not life-threatening, urgent care is the right choice. These centers have the equipment and expertise to handle these injuries effectively .
• Persistent or Worsening Symptoms: If you have symptoms like high fever, persistent vomiting or diarrhea, severe sore throat, or intense headaches that do not improve with home care, urgent care can provide the necessary diagnostics and treatment.
• Infections: Urgent care centers are equipped to diagnose and treat various infections such as urinary tract infections, ear infections, and respiratory infections like bronchitis or pneumonia. They can perform necessary tests and prescribe medications on the spot.
• Diagnostic Tests: If you need X-rays, lab tests, or other diagnostic services to determine the cause of your symptoms, urgent care centers like +MEDRITE Urgent Care have the facilities to perform these tests and provide prompt results.

If you need medical attention but your primary care physician is unavailable, urgent care centers offer a convenient alternative. They have extended hours, including evenings and weekends, making it easier to get care without waiting for an appointment.

Consider the severity and duration of your symptoms. If they are moderate to severe, persistent, or worsening, and you need prompt attention that cannot wait for a scheduled appointment, urgent care is likely the best option. For example, if you have a high fever, significant pain, or a deep cut that might need stitches, urgent care can provide the comprehensive care you need quickly.

When to Choose a Walk-In Clinic

Walk-in clinics are a great choice for minor medical issues that require quick attention but are not severe enough to need urgent care.

• Minor Illnesses: If you have a cold, flu, minor sore throat, earache, or mild allergic reactions, a walk-in clinic can provide the necessary treatment. They can prescribe medications and offer advice on managing symptoms at home.
• Basic Health Screenings: For routine health screenings, such as blood pressure checks, cholesterol testing, or diabetes monitoring, walk-in clinics offer convenient and quick services without the need for an appointment.
• Vaccinations: Walk-in clinics are suitable for getting vaccinations, including flu shots and other immunizations, which can be done quickly and conveniently.
• Minor Injuries: For minor cuts, scrapes, bruises, or mild burns that do not require extensive treatment, a walk-in clinic can provide first aid and basic wound care.
• Preventive Care: Walk-in clinics can also provide preventive care services like routine physicals, wellness exams, and basic health assessments, making them a convenient choice for maintaining overall health.

Consider the nature of your symptoms. If they are mild, not worsening, and can be managed with basic medical care, a walk-in clinic is likely sufficient. For example, if you have a minor cold, need a routine vaccination, or require a quick health screening, a walk-in clinic can meet your needs efficiently.

Choose +MEDRITE Urgent Care

Understanding the differences between urgent care and walk-in clinics helps you make informed decisions about where to seek medical attention, ensuring that you get the right level of care when you need it most. Whether you have a minor injury, need a routine vaccination, or require more urgent medical attention, knowing where to go can save you time, reduce stress, and ensure you receive the best possible care.

For all your urgent care needs, visit +MEDRITE Urgent Care. Our dedicated team of healthcare professionals is ready to provide you with high-quality, comprehensive care. With multiple locations, extended hours, and a commitment to excellence, +MEDRITE is your trusted partner in health. Don’t wait—take charge of your health today by visiting your nearest +MEDRITE Urgent Care center.

Top 10 Reasons to Seek an Urgent Care Visit

Illnesses and accidents rarely hit at convenient times or give you time to plan an appointment in advance. Fortunately, urgent care offers fast, affordable care — usually at a lower cost than emergency room (ER) treatment. 

When your condition isn’t severe enough to make a trip to the ER but you don’t have time to schedule a primary care visit, urgent care is an excellent option. At Prima Medicine , our providers offer comprehensive urgent and immediate care services to patients at our locations in Fairfax and South Riding, Virginia.   

Emergency room care providers treat the most serious or life-threatening issues first. This makes sense, but it also means that if you have an urgent but non-life-threatening condition, you might wait hours for medical care. 

That’s why providers recommend urgent care for non-life-threatening medical issues that require urgent or near-urgent care. Here’s a look at the top ten reasons patients visit urgent care.

1. Upper respiratory infections and viruses

One of the top reasons people visit urgent care is for help managing upper respiratory infections and viruses, such as colds, COVID, the flu, mononucleosis, or sinus infections. Since these conditions share similar symptoms, it can be challenging to know what’s causing you to feel sick. 

2. Sprains and strains

Suffering from a painful sprain or strain , such as a twisted ankle, sore wrist, or knee sprain, are all common reasons for visiting urgent care. Seeing a trained medical professional in these cases makes sense, as it’s difficult to tell on your own whether these injuries are fractures, sprains, or strains. 

3. Sore throats

Sore throats are rarely a medical emergency and often accompany viruses, but they can also signal a serious infection, such as strep throat. Strep throat is caused by a highly contagious bacteria, and if left untreated, it can worsen and cause serious complications.

If you or your loved one has a sore throat with any of the following symptoms , schedule an urgent care visit at Prima Medicine as soon as possible:

• Sore throat lasting more than seven days
• Fever higher than 101°F
• Severe sore throat
• Difficulty breathing or swallowing
• White patches on the tonsils
• Difficulty opening the mouth
• Swollen glands
• Facial or neck swelling

You should also schedule a visit if you’re experiencing recurring sore throats.  

4. Urinary tract infections (UTI)

UTIs are common bacterial infections that affect women more often than men. Since UTIs don’t typically resolve on their own, and because they share symptoms with other gynecological problems, such as sexually transmitted diseases, it’s important to see a medical provider for an accurate diagnosis and treatment. 

5. Eye infections or issues

If you’re struggling with an eye infection, such as pink eye, or you start experiencing other problematic eye issues, join the many people who visit urgent care for these reasons. Sometimes, eye infections are viral, but they can also be bacterial. Your Prima Medicine provider advises you which you have, when to follow up with an eye doctor, and prescribes any necessary medication.

6. Digestive issues

Digestive issues and stomach discomfort are other common reasons to seek urgent care. Many conditions can cause symptoms like vomiting, diarrhea, and stomach pain, including food poisoning, stomach flu, gallbladder issues, appendicitis, and more. Seeing a provider can ensure you get the care you need. 

7. Ear infections

Both adults and children can suffer from ear infections , which can cause ear pain, fever, trouble hearing, and difficulty sleeping. It’s a good idea to bring in young children with symptoms of an ear infection as soon as possible. For adults, if your symptoms last more than a few days, schedule an urgent care visit at Prima Medicine. 

8. Rashes and insect bites or stings

Rashes have many causes, including poison ivy, heat, allergic reactions, and insect bites or stings. Sometimes insect bites or stings can cause an infection or allergic reaction . If you have a rash or bite or sting that’s not getting better or is accompanied by a fever, call Prima Medicine to see a provider right away. 

9. Accidents, burns, cuts, scrapes, and other wounds

When you have an accident or wound that isn’t life-threatening or doesn’t pose a serious concern to your eyes or limbs, urgent care is the right place to seek treatment. Your provider helps manage your bleeding using stitches or bandages to reduce the risk of infection and scarring and provides recommendations for follow-up care.

10. Being uninsured/underinsured

Many people visit an urgent care center because they don’t have health insurance or are underinsured. At Prima Medicine, we take most major insurances . However, we also offer self-pay options for patients without insurance or whose insurance doesn’t offer adequate coverage. 

If you need urgent care, we can help. To get a same-day or next-day evaluation, book an appointment online or over the phone with Prima Medicine today.

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