What You Should Know About Urgent Care

There may come a time in your life when you have a medical issue and can't wait to see your regular doctor. In this type of situation, it may be best to visit your local urgent care center. Urgent care centers can treat a wide range of health concerns, including strep throat, sprains, vomiting, bug stings, urinary tract infections, and minor lacerations. A medical professional will give you a proper assessment and then recommend the appropriate treatment.

Here are some things you should know about urgent care.

Urgent Care Is Not the Same as Emergency Care

Some people use the terms urgent care and emergency care interchangeably. However, the two are not the same at all. While urgent care centers can assist with a lot of different medical issues, they can't treat life-threatening conditions, such as heart attacks, excessive bleeding, and brain injuries. If you have a major medical emergency, you should go to the emergency room right away, not urgent care.

Expect to Wait

When you are dealing with a health issue, like the flu or bladder infection, you feel uncomfortable and want to get treated right away. However, if you go to urgent care, keep in mind that you may have to wait a little while for a doctor to see you. Urgent care centers are often busy, especially at night. You may be able to shorten your wait time by checking in online ahead of time.

Be Prepared to Talk About Your Medical History and Medications

Before you receive treatment at an urgent care center, you will be asked several questions about your medical history and medications. This is to ensure that you receive the best and safest care possible. As such, make a list of all the medications you take and bring it with you. It is also a good idea to bring copies of your medical records.

You Might Not See a Doctor

When you go to an urgent care center, you might see a doctor, nurse practitioner, or physician assistant. No matter who you see, you should rest assured that they are all qualified to handle your medical issue.

If you have a non-life-threatening medical condition, you may want to head over to your local urgent care center. A healthcare professional will evaluate you and determine the best way to treat your condition. After you leave the urgent care center, you should have some relief. For more information, contact an urgent care facility near you.