What is the difference between urgent care and an emergency room?

Urgent care treats non-life-threatening illnesses and injuries that need prompt attention, while emergency rooms are for truly critical and life-threatening conditions.

Do I need an appointment for urgent care?

Most urgent care centers operate on a walk-in basis, meaning you typically do not need an appointment to be seen.

Can urgent care centers prescribe medication?

Yes, urgent care providers can diagnose conditions and prescribe medications as needed for your treatment plan.

Will urgent care share my health information with my primary doctor?

Reputable urgent care centers can share your visit summary with your primary care physician to ensure continuity of care, with your permission.

Is urgent care more expensive than a regular doctor's visit?

Urgent care visits are often slightly more expensive than a routine primary care visit but significantly less costly than an emergency room visit for similar conditions.

What if my condition is more serious than urgent care can handle?

If your condition is determined to be more serious, urgent care staff can stabilize you and arrange for transfer to an emergency room or specialist.

Find a Urgent Care Medicine Near You

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When you have a sudden illness or injury that isn't life-threatening but can't wait for a regular doctor's appointment, Urgent Care Medicine is here for you. These clinics bridge the gap between your primary care doctor and the emergency room, offering quick and convenient care for a wide range of common medical issues. Think of it as your go-to for immediate but not critical health concerns.

Urgent care centers are staffed by experienced doctors, physician assistants, and nurses who are ready to provide prompt diagnosis and treatment. They can help you feel better faster without the long waits or higher costs often associated with emergency room visits. Whether it's a nagging cough, a minor cut, or a sudden fever, finding a local Urgent Care Medicine professional means getting the care you need when you need it most. Our directory helps you easily locate a clinic near you so you can get back to feeling your best.

Conditions treated

Colds and flu
Bronchitis
Sinus infections
Ear infections
Sore throat
Urinary tract infections
Rashes and skin infections
Minor cuts and scrapes
Sprains and strains
Allergies

Common procedures

X-rays for minor injuries
Stitch removal
Wound cleaning and dressing
Flu shots
School physicals
STD testing
Laboratory services
Drug screening

When to see a urgent care medicine

If you have a sudden fever and body aches.
When you experience persistent coughing or congestion.
If you have a minor sprain or fracture.
When you get a cut that might need stitches.
If you have a mild allergic reaction.
When your child has an earache or mild rash.
If you need a school or sports physical quickly.

First visit

At your first urgent care visit, you'll typically be checked in, have your vital signs taken, and then a medical provider will assess your condition, ask about your symptoms, and recommend a treatment plan, which may include tests or prescriptions.

Typical cost

Out-of-pocket costs for an urgent care visit generally range from $50 to $150 with insurance, but can be higher without coverage.

Insurance

Most health insurance plans cover urgent care visits, often requiring a co-pay similar to a specialist visit.

How to choose the right urgent care medicine

1Look for board-certified doctors or physician assistants.
2Check their operating hours for convenience.
3Read patient reviews for quality of care and wait times.
4Confirm they accept your health insurance plan.
5See if they offer services like X-rays or lab tests on-site.
6Consider their location and ease of access.
7Ask about their typical wait times before you visit.

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Top urgent care medicines

No providers are listed under Urgent Care Medicine yet — showing closely related specialists (Otolaryngology, Otolaryngology (ENT), Emergency Medicine).