Health Care In A Flash: What To Consider When Visiting An Urgent Care Clinic

Visiting an urgent care facility is sometimes a necessity. Luckily for you, these clinics offer immediate care for a myriad of health issues that simply can't wait until your doctor has an available appointment. Here are a few things to keep in mind when visiting an urgent care clinic that will set you up for success and get you feeling better in no time. 

Go When It's Not Busy

If your reason for visiting an urgent care facility doesn't need to be immediate, consider checking out the busiest times for the clinic. A quick search or call to the facility will inform you when the busy time slots of the day are, allowing you to plan your visit better. If possible, make an appointment beforehand to secure a designated time slot for your visit. Remember that many urgent care clinics might be on the smaller side as well, so lunch breaks should always be taken into consideration. If you are unsure of when to come, simply call the facility beforehand. If they are not too busy, they may be able to fit you in without an appointment.

Know When to Head to the Emergency Room

Although an urgent care clinic is an extremely convenient alternative to waiting inside an emergency room, it's still good to know when you should instead seek emergency care. Urgent care facilities are excellent options for treating colds, the flu, minor burns and cuts, and minor infections. For more serious issues—such as broken bones, severe burns, difficulty breathing, severe headache, or dizziness—seek immediate emergency care or call 911 if required. If you are unsure whether or not you need to visit an emergency room, you can call the urgent care facility to see if they are able to provide you with the proper care you need. 

Come Prepared

Expect to be asked which medications you are currently on, any known allergies you have to drugs, and information regarding your primary care physician. This information will help give your attending physical a thorough look at your situation as well as your medical history. Also, be sure to mention any previous conditions that may be related to your visit to the urgent clinic. If you are experiencing stomach pain, for instance, it would be helpful to mention if you also had a history of ulcers or perhaps a bout of acute colitis. On the other hand, if you are going in for a swollen ankle, it would be helpful to mention a prior break or fracture in the same foot for the best care possible. 

Contact a local urgent care to learn more. 

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