While Frontline ER has emergency room as part of its name, it is clear that we serve our communities with acute care.
So just what is the difference between an emergency room and an acute care center? And when should you go to the hospital ER and when should you use an urgent care center?
The answer isn’t always simple. Usually health emergencies happen without warning and cause us to make split-second decisions. A broken arm, chest pains or a sick infant in the middle of the night. However, there is a difference between “emergency” and “urgent.”
Hospital ERs are available and open to provide complex and critical care any time of the day or night. They can care for a heart attack, life-and limb-threatening injuries and traumatic injuries resulting from car accidents. The best time to head for the hospital ER is when you are suffering chest pains, been severely burned, suspect stroke symptoms or have suffered a concussion. Plus they have the ability to admit you to their hospital should you require more intense care.
In the same vein, an urgent care center, like Frontline ER, is where you go when your doctor’s office is not open. Anything you might consider consulting with your own PCP when they aren’t available, is a candidate affliction to talk with the urgent care physician about. Small cuts that might require stitches, sprains and strains, abdominal pain or fever without a rash are all basic ailments that could bring you to an urgent care center.
So take a moment to consider your injury or pain and then choose your care option. Keep in mind, too, that should your injuries be more serious, that Frontline will recommend that you be taken to the nearest hospital for more acute care.
For more information, please give us a call or consult our website.
