ER or Primary Care?

Here’s some basic information to help you make a decision about the best level of care for your needs.

Primary care

Visit your primary care clinic for injuries or illnesses that are not life-threatening. We'll make every effort to see you on the day you contact us.

The benefits? Your primary care provider knows you and your health history. In addition, a primary care visit is less expensive than a trip to the ER, and you’ll avoid a lengthy stay in the ER waiting room.

Visit your primary care clinic when you are experiencing:

  • Cold, flu, and/or COVID-19 symptoms

  • Headaches

  • Minor burns

  • Minor cuts/lacerations

  • Minor joint injuries

  • Nausea/vomiting

  • Rashes

  • Urinary tract symptoms

Urgent care

Visit an urgent care clinic if:

  • you have any of the above symptoms,

  • you need immediate attention, and

  • your primary care provider is unavailable or the clinic is closed.

 

Emergency care

Visit an emergency room if you have a life-threatening emergency, including:

  • Difficulty breathing

  • Broken bones

  • Chest pain or pressure

  • Head, neck, and spine injuries

  • Seizures

  • Severe pain

  • Stroke

  • Unconsciousness

  • Uncontrollable bleeding

InformationANHC Communications