It can be difficult figuring out when to go to the ER instead of an urgent care center. The reason why these two can be confusing is that both places imply that there is a medical situation that should be addressed as soon as possible. That being said, there are several differences between an emergency room and an urgent care center, which is why it’s important to figure out when to go where.

 

Plan Ahead So You Can Make the Right Choice

 

It is key to think ahead and make sure you are familiar with situations that require you to go to the ER. You must never downplay symptoms — it’s integral that for serious cases you are familiar with which facility you should go to because time is of the essence when it comes to medical emergencies. You should ensure that you choose an urgent care or emergency room ahead of time so you can plan the fastest routes that will enable you to get there in time.

 

You must also plan ahead when it comes to how you will handle emergency medical costs. About 8.3% of adults over the age of 18 have failed to get medical care because of cost. Therefore, it is important to make sure that your medical insurance premiums are always up to date.

 

Conditions to Go to An Urgent Care For

 

There are several conditions that require a visit to urgent care. These conditions may not be as dire as ones you would attend an ER for. For instance, if the condition requires surgery, you will need to go to the emergency room instead of urgent care. Here are some symptoms that indicate you should go to urgent care:

 

 

• • Dehydration

 

• • Abdominal pain

 

• • Shortness of breath

 

• • Modest flu-like symptoms

 

• • Sore throat

 

• • Small cuts that could require stitches

 

• • Sprains and strains

 

• • Vomiting

 

• • Persistent diarrhea

 

• • Pink eye

 

• • Ear infections

 

 

If you are experiencing certain symptoms and you are not sure whether to go to the ER or urgent care clinic, trust your gut. If it seems severe, do not hesitate to go to the ER. If you are experiencing any symptoms and are unsure where to go, give your doctor a quick call to advise you accordingly.