Know what care you need

There’s nothing more stressful than when you or a loved one is ill or injured – except for when you are unsure where to turn for care. These days, there are more options for medical treatment than ever. Here is a breakdown of some of the many care options available and some of the symptoms that can be treated.

Primary Care Provider
Your primary care provider (PCP) is your medical home. This is where you should establish care for any long term health concerns, such as high blood pressure or diabetes. A PCP can see you within the same week or even the next day, so they are your best option for concerns that don’t require urgent resolutions. Your PCP can treat your allergies or help manage your asthma. Primary care providers are a great option for ordering non-emergent screenings such as blood tests and mammograms.

Urgent Care
Urgent care is a great option for any medical concerns that aren’t life threatening but require timely treatment. You should visit an urgent care to treat non-life threatening cuts, burns or sprains. Urgent care providers can also offer treatment for mild to moderate asthma symptoms or other respiratory issues such as bronchitis. You should visit an urgent care for flu, severe sore throat or prolonged vomiting or diarrhea.

Emergency Room
The emergency room (ER) is best for treatment of serious and emergent injuries or conditions. If you feel that you or your loved one are in need of immediate medical help, get to your nearest emergency room. ERs are equipped to address critical situations should your condition require rapid treatment or surgical intervention. Some symptoms that are treated in ERs include chest pain, difficulty breathing, broken bones, cuts that require stitches or injuries after an accident.