Where Should I Go For Care

Urgent Care or Emergency Department?

When you’re sick or injured, knowing where to go for care is essential. Understanding the difference between urgent care and the emergency department can help you get the right treatment quickly and ensure that emergency resources are available for those who need them most.

How do you know if your sickness is worthy of an ED visit, urgent care or your doctor’s office? Dr. Harris Ahmed, Associate Medical Director of the St. Joseph’s Health Hospital Emergency Department has answers. Listen now to St. Joseph's Health MedCast.

Where Should You Go?

Always have your list of current medications ready!

Your Doctor's Office or Virtual Care

For care and treatment of non-urgent issues

Routine Well Visits
Preventative Care
Immunizations or Shots
Diabetes
Rashes
Gastrointestinal Issues
High Blood Pressure
Tooth Pain
Sore Throat
Pink Eye
Lower Back Pain
Animal or Insect Bite
Urinary Tract Infection
Pelvic Wellness

Virtual Care

Urgent Care

For immediate but not life-threatening needs

COVID-19 Testing and Evaluation
Sprains and Strains
Stitches
Rashes
Cold and Flu Symptoms
Tooth Pain
Sore Throat
Pink Eye
Lower Back Pain
Animal or Insect Bite
Ear Pain

Emergency Care

For any life-or-death emergency or urgent afterhours need (open 24/7)

Allergic Reactions
Babies Needing Immediate Care
Chest Pain
Severe Burns
Seizures
Serious Eye or Head Injuries
Stroke Symptoms
Severe Abdominal Pain
Broken Bones
Rapid Bleeding
Heart Attack Symptoms
High Fevers
Breathing Problems
Drug Overdose or Poisoning
Bad Falls (for Seniors)
Any Life-threatening or Limb-threatening Injuries

More Details