When to go to the Emergency Department

Emergency Department

If you have a serious condition, such as a suspected stroke, heart attack, severe bleeding, head injury, or other major trauma, go directly to the nearest emergency room or call 9-1-1 — don’t take any chances with a potentially life-threatening condition.


Choosing the Right Medical Care When You Are Ill or Injured.

Our goal is to provide the best possible care and treatment for you and your family. Since you are the most important member of your healthcare team, we would like to provide some key information that will help you make the best choice when seeking medical treatment for injuries or illnesses.

 Download our flyer, "Emergency Room vs. Urgent Care" in English and Spanish.

Symptoms

Emergency Room

Urgent Care

Back pain  
Chest pain  
Coughing or vomiting blood  
Deep cuts or bleeding that won’t stop  
Difficulty breathing  
Earaches and infections  
Fever  
Knife or gunshot wounds  
Large bone fractures  
Loss of consciousness  
Mild asthma  
Minor cuts  
Minor fractures (fingers, toes)  
Moderate to severe asthma  
Problems related to pregnancy  
Rashes and bumps  
Seizures  
Severe abdominal pain  
Severe burns  
Sore throats  
Strains and sprains  
Suspected stroke or heart attack  
Urinary tract infections  
Vomiting and diarrhea