Navigating your health care choices: When to visit your primary care provider, urgent care, or the emergency room

By Dr. Jake Armbrust

Southwest Medical, part of Optum

Knowing where to turn for medical care can be confusing. Each option – your primary care provider, urgent care, and the emergency room – may be appropriate under different circumstances.[1] Here’s a guide to help you make the best decision based on your situation.

When to go to the emergency room:

The emergency room (ER) is designed to handle severe, potentially life-threatening conditions.[2] The ER is equipped to provide immediate care for:

-        Choking or trouble breathing

-        Chest pain or pressure, symptoms that may be indicative of a heart attack

-        Loss of consciousness or sudden confusion

-        Stroke symptoms such as sudden inability to speak, see, facial drooping or weakness in the arm or leg

-        Heavy bleeding or serious burns 

-        Sudden severe headache

-        Severe allergic reactions with trouble breathing, swelling, or hives

-        Substance overdose

-        Suicidal thoughts

-        Head trauma

-        Trauma including large broken bones or a broken bone that protrudes through the skin[3]

If you are experiencing symptoms of a heart attack or stroke, or symptoms that are severe or that are progressing rapidly, you should call 911 immediately.[4]

When to visit your primary care provider:

If you’re suffering from a minor illness or injury, your primary care provider should usually be your first choice for care. They know your medical history and are in the best position to help you manage your long-term care. Look to your primary care provider when in need of treatment for conditions such as:

-        Aches and pains

-        Cold and flu symptoms

-        Infections such as pink eye

-        Rashes

-        Uncomplicated urinary tract infections

Your primary care provider also helps you manage chronic conditions and can focus on preventive care and promoting healthy lifestyle choices.

When to visit urgent care:

Many of the minor, acute issues your primary care provider addresses can be addressed at an urgent care center, as well. If you need more timely attention for conditions that are not life-threatening, urgent care can be a great option. Urgent care is especially useful for:

-        Cold and flu symptoms

-        Minor injuries and cuts requiring stitches

-        Muscle or body aches

Remember, too, that in some cases your primary care provider may not be equipped to address every minor issue, such as lacerations requiring stitches, or minor injuries requiring an X-ray.

Once you understand the role of each health care option, you can make informed decisions and navigate your health with confidence.

[1] When to use the emergency room – Adult | Medline Plus

[2] When to use the emergency room – Adult | Medline Plus

[3] When to use the emergency room – Adult | Medline Plus

[4] When to use the emergency room – Adult | Medline Plus