When faced with a health problem, you may have trouble deciding where to go for treatment. It’s important to understand the difference and know which to choose – urgent care vs. emergency room – so you can make an informed decision when you require medical attention.
Urgent Care vs. Emergency Room
Each of these types of facilities is designed to treat certain health problems, so where you need to go will depend on the type of medical care you need. Choosing the appropriate place of care can ensure prompt medical attention and help reduce unnecessary expenses.
When to Opt for Urgent Care
Do you have a smaller, non-serious injury or illness? You should go to urgent care. For example, if you have a minor accident, sprain or laceration, urgent care is typically the best place to go.
Urgent care is a walk-in clinic that treats illnesses or injuries that require immediate care but are not serious enough for an emergency room visit. Urgent care is typically cheaper and faster than treatment received at an emergency room.
When to Visit the Emergency Room
Do you have a more serious life-threatening injury or illness? You should go to an emergency room for emergencies such as chest pain, seizures or loss of consciousness.
For more resources on using your health insurance options, contact us at TIG Advisors.
