Not sure where you should go if you or someone you know is experiencing a health issue? DoctorsCare wants you to know how to tell whether you should head to an emergency room or an urgent care center.

If you’re facing a sudden medical issue deciding between going to the emergency room or an urgent care center can be confusing, especially during the current pandemic. Here’s what you should know before choosing one of the two.

Urgent Care

• Urgent care is for minor, not major medical issues that require immediate care but are not life-threatening.
• Urgent care centers usually have doctors and physician assistants who have a broad range of medical knowledge and skills.
• At DoctorsCare, we offer x-rays, treatment for minor burns, cuts, and lacerations, stitches, treatment for sprains, colds, flu, and fevers, and much more.
• If you do not have a life-threatening emergency, an urgent care center can save you both time and money.

Emergency Room

• Emergency rooms are meant for major medical emergencies.
• This option is best for trauma, major x-rays, surgical procedures, and other life-threatening situations.
• If you need care for a minor medical issue, but it’s late or the weekend and your local urgent care center is closed, then head to the emergency room if you cannot wait until they reopen.
• Always choose the emergency room if you’re experiencing one of the following
  • Shortness of breath
  • Chest pain, especially on the left side
  • Serious burns and cuts
  • Seizures
  • Severe allergic reactions
  • Loss of consciousness
  • Coughing or vomiting blood
• And keep in mind that in some cases, it may even be best to call 911 instead, and they’ll take you to your local emergency room.

If you have questions or are experiencing a minor but not major medical issue, call us or visit one of our two conveniently located offices in Clarksville. We accept walk-in patients of all ages during all hours of operation. No appointments necessary! Walk-in, feel better!

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