Finding the right type of care and treatment is paramount when you’re not feeling your best. But how do you ascertain the kind of care you need and who is best to treat you? From your primary physician to pharmacist, urgent care, ER, and minor injury units, there is a choice of healthcare services available for you to access.
Understanding what you need and where it is appropriate can help you get the right care quickly and get back on the road to recovery.
Pharmacist
A pharmacist isn’t just there to dispense medications once you’ve seen a doctor. They can help diagnose different ailments and direct you to further care options if required. They’re a great source of information for minor ailments such as coughs, colds, and rashes, too. If you’re unsure what to do or have any questions about your health conditions, medication side effects, etc., they can be a good first point of call for non-emergency situations.
Urgent Care
Urgent care is a convenient option for those who need immediate help but can’t wait for a doctor’s appointment or don’t have a condition severe enough for the ER. It’s a reassuring solution for when you’re not feeling your best.
Urgent care clinics can help with a range of health issues, from cuts, sprains, bites, stings, and infections to rashes, viruses, gastrointestinal concerns, and more. If it’s not life-threatening, but you need treatment asap, head to a local urgent care clinic for help. At the clinic, you will be seen by a healthcare professional who will assess your condition and provide the necessary treatment or refer you to a specialist if needed.
Doctor
Your doctor is a comprehensive resource for a wide range of health concerns, from chronic conditions to general wellness checks to acute health issues. They can help you get the right treatment or direct you to other providers for further care and investigation if required, ensuring your health needs are met.
ER
The ER or emergency room is for those life-threatening illnesses or injuries. Whether you take yourself to the ER or call an ambulance, this is the place you should head to for life-threatening concerns. If you’ve been in an accident or injured, have broken bones or head trauma, or you’re entirely ill, suspected of appendicitis, poisoning, or allergic reactions,etc, head to the ER for immediate care and get medical help. Not all doctors or urgent care centers can treat more severe conditions, and while they’re great for minor ailments, for anything life-threatening or extreme, the ER is the place to be.
Health Care Centers
Healthcare centers are available for those who don’t have insurance or can’t afford healthcare via other routes. They can deliver primary and nonurgent treatment, provide help and assistance for health conditions, and work with you on preventative options to help you avoid illness, injuries, infections, etc.
Ensuring you know your options when you need medical care or advice can help you get what you need quickly and avoid issues related to services provided and treatment on offer. Depending on the severity of your health concerns, these options are your main points of contact with various illnesses and injuries.
