When you’re feeling sick or injured, it’s not always easy to know where to go. Do you head to the urgent care clinic, or do you make an appointment with your doctor? What about when things are more severe? Is the ER the right choice? Read the blog below and learn more about which option is best for you in every situation.
When to Go to Urgent Care Clinics
Urgent care is a great option for when you need medical attention, but it’s not an emergency. Urgent care clinics can treat various conditions, from cold and flu symptoms to broken bones. You don’t need an appointment, and you can usually get in to see a doctor pretty quickly. Plus, most insurance plans are accepted at urgent care centers.
Advantages of Urgent Care
- You don’t need an appointment.
- You can usually get in to see a doctor pretty quickly.
- Most insurance plans are accepted.
- Urgent care clinics can treat a wide variety of conditions.
Disadvantages of Urgent Care
- Urgent care clinics are not open 24 hours a day.
- You may have to wait longer to be seen on busy days.
- You may have to pay more out of pocket if your insurance doesn’t cover urgent care visits.
When to Go to the Doctor’s Office
If you have a regular doctor that you see for preventive care and check-ups, then you should go to their office when you’re sick or injured. They know your medical history, so they’ll be able to give you the best possible care. Plus, if your condition is more serious, they can refer you to a specialist or the ER.
Advantages of Going to the Doctor’s Office
- Your doctor knows your medical history.
- They can refer you to a specialist or the ER if necessary.
Disadvantages of Going to the Doctor’s Office
- You need to make an appointment in advance.
- You may have to wait a while for your appointment.
- Your insurance may not cover preventive care visits.
When to Go to the ER
The emergency room is for, well, emergencies. If you’re having a heart attack, stroke, or another life-threatening condition, go to the ER. Even if you’re not sure if it’s an emergency, it’s always better to err on the side of caution and go to the ER. They’ll be able to assist you, no matter what’s wrong, and not need to send you anywhere else to receive the care you need.
Advantages of Going to the ER
- You don’t need an appointment.
- They can help you no matter what’s wrong.
- The ER is open 24 hours a day.
Disadvantages of Going to the ER
- You may have to wait a while to be seen.
- You may have to pay more out of pocket if your insurance doesn’t cover ER visits.
- The ER is for emergencies, so you’ll only be seen if it’s an emergency.
Urgent Care Near Me in Grand Rapids, MI
When you’re feeling sick or injured, it’s essential to choose the right place for treatment. WellCare Urgent Care is a great option for when you need medical attention and you don’t have an emergency. We encourage anyone suffering from non-emergency medical problems to visit our 28th Street or Leonard St locations today to find relief as soon as possible. We also offer virtual consultations at your convenience to answer any questions you may have.
