When should I go to the Emergency Room?
Go to the emergency room for problems that can’t wait, such as:
- Chest pain
- Difficulty breathing
- Severe bleeding or trauma
- Loss of consciousness
- Loss of or blurred vision
- High, uncontrolled fever
- Head injuries
- Burns
- Severe abdominal pain
- Broken bones
When should I go to urgent care?
Visit an urgent care for urgent problems that aren’t life-threatening but still need attention, such as:
- Coughs, colds and sore throat
- Sprains and strains
- Rashes or skin irritations like sunburn
- Minor burn
- Ear infections and sinus infections
- Minor cuts and lacerations
Still not sure?
If you are not sure which location is best suited for your condition and you are experiencing an emergency, please call 9-1-1 or go to the nearest emergency room.
If you are home and experiencing coronavirus-like symptoms (fever, cough, shortness of breath) and have been in contact with someone who likely has an active coronavirus infection, we encourage you to call your primary care physician or clinic before arriving.
Important things to bring with you
We understand that most visits to the Emergency Department aren’t planned. However, if possible, being prepared and knowing what to expect can help alleviate some of the stress you may experience. When visiting our Emergency Department, here are some things to make sure you bring with you to help expedite your treatment.
- Your health insurance information card (including Medicare and supplemental plan information)
- Photo identification (driver’s license, passport, etc.)
- A list of the medications that you take, or the bottles containing your medicine and vitamins and other pills not prescribed by your doctor
- Any records or recent test results you may have concerning your health
- A list of immunizations (If you are bringing your child to the ER)
- A list of emergency contacts and contact information for your regular medical providers
