When it comes to your health, it is important to know when to go to the doctor. Additionally, you should know when an emergency is just that -; an emergency -; and when a situation can be treated just as effectively and with less cost by an urgent care center. While urgent care facilities such as Med Express or Stat Health (a Walk In Medical Clinic Suffolk County) are not equipped to deal with life-threatening accidents, they can provide treatment for less serious injuries and illnesses outside of typical primary care physician operation hours. They also are, usually, much more affordable than going to the ER. So, when should you head to the emergency room and when will a walk-in clinic suffice? Here are some guidelines to follow:
Are you coughing up or vomiting blood? Then a trip to the emergency room is needed.
Do you think you have a fracture or sprain? An urgent care facility could treat you.
Any trouble breathing or shortness of breath, or chest pain? Best to go to the ER!
Do you have a typical malady, such as a cold, flu, or sinus infection? Head to a medical walk-in clinic.
Have you had a seizure? The emergency room is the place to go.
One of the biggest differences between emergency care and walk-in care is cost. While most insurance cover both, the out of pocket amount you end up paying can be drastically higher if you go to the emergency room. Additionally, the ER may charge you both for the visit and for the physician who meets with you. This could mean a difference of close to $1000 of money you would have to pay out of your own pocket. Of course, it is best not to take any chances if you feel that a walk-in clinic can’t properly meet your needs.
Urgent care facilities do have equipment like X-rays and labs on site, so they are ready to handle certain injuries as long as they aren’t too severe. From Med Express in Kings County to Walk-In Medical Clinic Suffolk County, it isn’t hard to find a treatment center that best fits your needs.
