Primary Care Physician, Urgent Care or ER – How to Choose?

Say you are out hiking and fall, injuring your ankle. Do you see your doctor, visit urgent care or go to an emergency room?

If possible, you should start with your primary care physician. He or she can best direct you where to go. However, they aren’t always available. When faced with a choice between urgent care and the ER, ask yourself: Are my symptoms severe or life-threatening? Did they come on suddenly or unexpectedly? Is there excessive bleeding, extreme pain or broken bones?

A “yes” answer to any of the above means the ER is your best choice.

– Sydney Ayers, SLJ 100 Communications