Urgent Care Specialist

What is urgent care?

Urgent care is an area of medical practice focused on addressing urgent health needs that do not rise to the level of emergency care. This type of health service fills the need for essential care when you aren’t able to access your primary health team. 

Some examples of medical issues that can be addressed in an urgent care setting include:

• Sprains and strains
• Abrasions
• Minor lacerations
• Joint pain
• Allergic reactions
• Rash or hives
• Cold and flu symptoms
• Eye irritation
• Nausea or vomiting
• Diarrhea or dehydration

This is far from a comprehensive list. There are many medical needs that should be promptly treated, yet are not life-threatening.

How do I know whether to seek urgent care or emergency care?

This is a common concern, and the best way to know how to meet your medical needs is to call Integrative Urgent Care to share the details of your circumstances. You’ll receive the guidance you need to make the right decision for yourself or your loved one. 

Some examples of issues that should be evaluated in an emergency room include:

• Loss of consciousness
• Moderate or severe burns
• Severe chest pain
• Symptoms of heart attack
• Symptoms of stroke, including vision loss, confusion, or slurred speech
• Severe breathing difficulty
• Uncontrolled bleeding
• Severe abdominal pain
• Pregnancy-related complications
• Poisoning

Knowing where to seek care is important since an unnecessary trip to the emergency room can be expensive. In addition, emergency room staff prioritize patient care based on severity, which can leave you sitting in the waiting room for long periods of time if your need is not deemed severe. 

What happens during an urgent care visit?

The first step is a comprehensive evaluation of your condition. This can include a physical exam, lab testing, a discussion of your symptoms and health history, or imaging. 

These diagnostic tools help your provider shape your care. Some urgent care needs like lacerations, minor burns, or eye irritation can be treated immediately. In other cases like cold or flu care, you might receive treatment to relieve your symptoms and learn how to support your body as your immune system fights off the infection. 

If your practitioner determines that you need additional testing or long-term treatment, you’ll be advised on how to move forward. Some chronic health needs will require ongoing care to achieve the best outcomes. More in-depth diagnostic services like advanced imaging, biopsies, or other tests may be needed to learn more about your condition. 

The team at Integrative Urgent Care is available by phone should you have questions or concerns. Walk-in visits are welcome, and online booking is also an option for less urgent scheduling needs.