Many people aren't sure when to go to urgent care. This type of clinic is a good option when you need immediate medical attention but don't have time to wait at the emergency room or the ER. These facilities are open around the clock and can often treat minor injuries and illnesses, and have more advanced diagnostic tools and equipment than a standard medical practice. Depending on the situation, you may need to visit a doctor more than once before you get the best treatment possible.
While urgent care is convenient, it's not a substitute for a primary care provider. While a primary care provider is more likely to treat a severe emergency, urgent care doesn't always have the necessary equipment to diagnose a patient properly. A primary physician can also keep track of your health records and help you manage medications. If you don't have a primary physician, an urgent care center can help you establish a relationship with one. It can also schedule follow-up visits. It can even share electronic records with your primary care physician, so a specialized doctor can see you more quickly.
While urgent care can help you get well quickly, you can still see your primary care provider. While a primary care provider is more likely to be familiar with your medical history, urgent care can't maintain detailed medical records. Bring any relevant medical information to the appointment. Insurance information, names of prescription medications, and any significant diagnoses. You can also bring a parent or guardian's authorization form if you're traveling with a minor.
Unless you have known symptoms for weeks or months, you should contact your primary care physician before you go to an urgent care clinic. Your primary care physician will be able to diagnose and treat the condition in the most effective way. However, urgent-care clinics are not a replacement for a primary care physician, but they can be an excellent option if you don't have time to see one. These facilities also provide a variety of other services that can be helpful in times of need.
The best time to go to an urgent care clinic depends on your individual needs and your circumstances. A true medical emergency should require you to go to an emergency room, but if it is not an emergency, it is better to visit an urgent care clinic instead. This is because the wait times for an urgent care clinic are often longer than at a regular doctor's office. Nevertheless, the best time to visit an urgent-care center is one that is convenient for you.
When to go to urgent care centers: It is best to visit the clinic during early morning or late afternoon hours. This is because there are less patients and wait times are higher at this time of the day. Most people go to urgent care centers after school or work, which causes the high volume of patients. Before you leave your home, check the wait times at Allina Health Urgent Care. If you are in an urgent situation, you should try to visit a doctor as soon as possible.
