Urgent care vs. emergency room
Sometimes we all put off small health problems, but this can lead to bigger problems. Or there are times when you simply can’t get in to see your doctor. That’s why we offer urgent care at Aurora. When you need care immediately, you can get same-day care at an urgent care clinic or emergency department depending on the severity of your symptoms.
What's the difference between urgent and emergency care?
Urgent care is a good option when you need care for minor health issues. Clinics are open early, late, on weekends or holidays.
Emergency care is for serious medical conditions in which delaying care could cause permanent harm or even death. Call 911 if you think you’re experiencing an emergency. Emergency responders are trained to react quickly and transport you to the facility that best meets your needs.
Reasons to go to urgent care
Urgent care is a good option when you need care for minor health issues after hours or if your provider isn’t available. Just search for locations near you and choose the time you’d like to come in for care. You also can walk in for care.
Visit an urgent care clinic for problems such as:
- Coughs, congestion and sinus problems
- Mild fevers
- Throat pain
- Ear infections
- Sprains and minor injuries
- Pink eye or other minor eye problems
- Rashes
- Bug bites and small animal bites
- Bladder infections
- Minor burns
When to go to emergency department
Go to the nearest emergency department or call 911 if you’re experiencing life-threating symptoms.
Symptoms include but aren't limited to:
- Chest pain
- Loss of consciousness
- Difficulty breathing
- Severe head pain or injury, including loss of vision
- Uncontrolled bleeding
- Severe burns
- Broken bones
- Extreme pain, especially if the cause is unknown
- Suspected poisoning
- Suspected drug overdose
- Attempted suicide
- Children under 3 months of age who need immediate care should be taken to an emergency department