More than 155 million people visit hospital emergency rooms each year, according to 2022 statistics. ER visits are intended for serious medical emergencies—however, there is a distinction between emergency room visits and urgent care visits. While both facilities address medical emergencies, the severity of the condition determines which one is the appropriate choice. Knowing the difference can save valuable time during a medical emergency.
The Difference Between Urgent Care and the ER
Hospitals have multiple admission areas for patients, yet many assume the emergency room (ER) is the default choice for all medical emergencies. However, not every emergency requires an ER visit—some are better suited for urgent care.
Understanding when to visit urgent care versus the ER can prevent unnecessary delays in receiving the right medical attention. Imagine waiting in the wrong department, only to be redirected elsewhere—this happens in both private and public healthcare systems. Knowing where to go based on the level of care needed can ensure faster and more effective treatment.
Tips for Patients
To be prepared for medical emergencies, patients should have the contact information for their nearest hospital, including direct numbers for both the ER and urgent care units. These departments typically have dedicated phone lines, which can save time by allowing patients or caregivers to call ahead while en route.
Additionally, knowing how to contact local ambulance services is crucial, as they are not always directly connected to hospitals and may have separate emergency lines. In cases where an ambulance is unavailable, some security services may also provide emergency transport for life-threatening situations.
Emergency rooms receive millions of visits each year, yet many of these cases could have been handled at an urgent care center instead. First responders and medical staff assess patients and determine the appropriate level of care, ensuring each case is treated in the proper facility.
When to Visit Urgent Care
Urgent care centers are designed to treat medical conditions that require immediate attention but are not life-threatening. These facilities provide timely medical care, often 24/7, and serve as an alternative when a primary care provider is unavailable.
Common conditions treated at urgent care include:
Minor injuries such as:
- Minor cuts that may require stitches
- Minor burns
- Sprains and strains
- Concussion
Minor illnesses such as:
- High fever
- Bronchitis
- Colds and Flu
- Sore throat
- Stomach aches
Doctors and medical staff at urgent care centers can prescribe medications, order tests, and, if necessary, refer patients to other hospital departments for specialized care. Many urgent care centers are equipped with X-ray machines and have access to on-site pharmacies for emergency medications.
One of the key benefits of visiting urgent care is shorter wait times compared to an emergency room.
Going to the Emergency Room
Emergency rooms handle severe and life-threatening medical emergencies that require immediate intervention. If a condition poses an immediate risk to life or health, the ER is the right place to seek care.
Common reasons to visit the emergency room include:
- Anaphylaxis
- Accident victims
- Breaks
- Gunshot wounds
- Heart attacks
- Chest pain or difficulty breathing
- Other life-threatening emergencies
For any life-threatening condition, patients should call 911 or go directly to the nearest emergency room. When possible, calling the ER while en route can help medical staff prepare for arrival and expedite treatment.
The emergency room is designed for life-saving, immediate care. For non-life-threatening conditions, urgent care or a primary care provider is often a better choice.
Our Urgent Care Walk-In Clinics in Omaha, Bennington, West Omaha, Rockbrook, Crossroads & Bellevue, NE
Our staff works to provide prompt, personal, and professional care for all of our patients. We strive to provide the attention patients need in as quick a time as possible. Urgent Care Clinics in Omaha & Bellevue, Nebraska has three locations in the Omaha metropolitan area. Our three walk-in clinics are:
- Rockbrook Urgent Care
- Crossroads Urgent Care
- Bellevue Urgent Care
- West Omaha Urgent Care
- Bennington Urgent Care
Disclaimer
The information contained on this webpage is for educational purposes as well as to provide general information and general understanding of the pertinent medical issue only, not to provide a specific diagnosis. This information is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice. By using this blog/web site you understand there is no doctor patient relationship between you and the blog/web site publisher. The information included on this site should not be used as a substitute for medical advice from a licensed medical professional in your state. Neither Urgent Care Network, its subsidiaries, affiliates, assignees or successors in interest, nor any other party assume liability for loss or damage due to reliance on content of this blog/web site. If you are experiencing a severe medical issue, you should seek emergency assistance immediately.