When an illness or injury occurs, it's important to know where to go.
When an illness or injury occurs, it's important to know where to go. It can be tricky to know the difference, especially when your primary care office is booked or it's after hours. Each option has its place, and we're here to help you make the best decision.
If you have an emergency, you should call 911 or go the nearest emergency room. Emergency rooms are equipped to handle almost anything, with advanced imaging and testing capabilities, and even rooms to stay overnight if need be. However, the typical ER visit costs more than three times more than the typical urgent care visit, and ER wait times are usually significantly longer. In a non-life-threatening situation, the urgent care may be the smarter choice. Premier Urgent Care is expertly staffed. You will be advised to go the ER if your condition is life-threatening.
Urgent Care
Premier Urgent Care is staffed with doctors and nurse practitioners who have access to laboratory and x-ray tests. We are open later in the evening and on weekends, when you need us most. Nationally, the average time of an ER visit is 4.5 hours; the average urgent care visit lasts less than one hour. In addition, the average cost for an ER visit is $2,259, the average urgent care visit costs $178.
Visit an urgent care center for these common conditions:
· Cold and Flu
· Fever
· Coughs and Sore Throat
· Cuts and Scrapes
· Joint Injuries
· Minor Burns
· Diarrhea, Vomiting, and Stomach Pain
Emergency Rooms
Most emergency rooms are open 24/7. There is usually access to advanced CT scans and MRI's, as well as surgical and obstetric care. If you suspect a life-threatening illness or injury, you should choose an Emergency Room visit over an urgent care.
Visit an emergency room if you experience:
· Chest pain or severe shortness of breath
· Continuous bleeding
· Constant vomiting
· Deep wounds
· Unconsciousness
· Head injuries
· Weakness in an arm or leg, or difficulty speaking
