Urgent Care vs. Emergency Room: Where Should You Go?

When a medical issue comes up, it can be hard to know where to go for help—urgent care or the emergency department (ER). Choosing the right place not only helps you get the care you need faster but also keeps emergency rooms available for true life-threatening emergencies.

Below is a simple guide to help you make the right decision.

Emergency Room (ER): For Life-Threatening Emergencies

The ER is open 24/7 and is equipped to handle serious, complex, or life-threatening medical emergencies. If you or someone else could be in danger without immediate care, go to the ER or call 911.

Examples of medical emergencies:

  • Chest pain or pressure

  • Difficulty breathing

  • Severe bleeding

  • Stroke symptoms (slurred speech, face drooping, arm weakness)

  • Seizures

  • Major trauma (car accident, fall from a height)

  • Serious burns

  • Loss of consciousness

  • Severe allergic reactions (anaphylaxis)

  • Poisoning or overdose

⚠️ When in doubt, call 911.

Urgent Care: For Minor Illnesses or Injuries

Urgent care clinics handle non-life-threatening conditions that need attention the same day but aren’t serious enough for the ER. They are great for after-hours care when your doctor’s office is closed.

Examples of conditions treated at urgent care:

  • Minor sprains or strains

  • Small cuts or burns

  • Ear infections

  • Mild asthma symptoms

  • Fever without rash

  • Coughs, colds, or flu

  • Sore throat or strep

  • Mild allergic reactions (like rashes or itching)

  • Urinary tract infections

  • Minor eye injuries or infections

Urgent care is usually faster and less expensive than the ER for these types of visits.