Know When to Go: Emergency Room or Urgent Care Clinic?

When a sudden illness or injury strikes, deciding where to go for care can feel overwhelming. Should you head to the emergency room or visit an urgent care center? Knowing the difference can help you get the right care at the right time—and could even prevent worst-case scenarios.

At Crisp Regional Hospital, your health and safety are our top priorities. Here’s what you need to know to make the best decision when every minute counts.

When to Visit the Emergency Department

The Emergency Department (ED) is equipped to handle life-threatening conditions that require immediate, advanced medical attention. Visit the ER if you or a loved one experience any of the following:

• Chest pain or pressure

• Difficulty breathing or shortness of breath

• Signs of a stroke (sudden weakness, slurred speech, facial drooping)

• Severe allergic reactions

• Head injuries or serious trauma

• Uncontrolled bleeding

• Seizures

• High fever in infants

• Severe abdominal pain

• Loss of consciousness

In these cases, call 911 or get to the nearest emergency room as quickly and safely as possible.

When to Choose Urgent Care

Urgent care centers are designed for non-life-threatening illnesses and injuries that still need prompt attention. You can consider urgent care for conditions such as:

• Minor fractures, sprains, or strains

• Small cuts that may need stitches

• Ear infections

• Rashes and skin infections

Urgent care typically has shorter associated wait times and lower costs, making it a great choice for less severe medical issues.

Why It Matters

Choosing the right level of care helps ensure that:

• You receive timely treatment appropriate for your condition.

• Emergency departments remain available for critical cases.

• You can potentially save money on medical expenses by using urgent care when appropriate.

However, if you’re ever in doubt, it’s better to err on the side of caution and seek emergency care. At Crisp Regional Hospital, we provide 24/7 emergency services with a dedicated team ready to handle critical care needs. We are also glad to help you locate the best local urgent care for your situation. No matter where you seek care, your health always comes first.