Urgent Care

Urgent care centers provide fast, convenient medical attention for non-life-threatening illnesses and injuries that need prompt treatment but aren't serious enough for the emergency room. They fill the gap between your primary care doctor and the ER.

Visit urgent care if you have a condition that needs same-day attention, such as:

• Cold, flu, or COVID-19 symptoms
• Minor cuts, scrapes, or burns
• Earaches or sinus infections
• Sore throat or cough
• Sprains, strains, or minor broken bones
• Rashes or allergic reactions (without severe breathing issues)
• Mild asthma symptoms
• Urinary tract infections (UTIs)
• Vomiting or diarrhea (without severe dehydration)

If you’re unsure whether your condition is an emergency, call ahead or speak with a nurse or provider.

Urgent care centers typically offer:

• On-site X-rays and lab testing
• Minor procedures like stitches or splinting
• Prescription medications
• Vaccinations and flu shots
• Physical exams for school, sports, or work
• COVID-19 and flu testing

Go to the ER or call 911 if you have:

• Chest pain or difficulty breathing
• Severe bleeding
• Head or spinal injuries
• Sudden weakness, numbness, or slurred speech
• Seizures
• High fever in infants
• Severe allergic reactions with trouble breathing

Most urgent care centers accept walk-ins, though some allow you to check in online to reduce wait times. They're usually open evenings, weekends, and holidays when regular doctors' offices are closed.

To help speed up your visit, bring:

• A photo ID
• Your insurance card
• A list of medications you're taking
• Any past medical records, if available

Most urgent care centers accept major health insurance plans. However, co-pays and fees may differ from what you pay at your primary care office. If you don’t have insurance, ask about self-pay or discounted rates.