ER, Express Care or your provider: a quick guide on where to go when
When you or a loved one is suddenly sick or injured, it may be unclear what to do. Should you wait to see your doctor, or does it make more sense to head to the emergency room (ER) or SIU Express Care (sometimes called urgent care) or your primary care provider? Knowing where to go can save you time and money and give you peace of mind that you will get the right care for your needs.
"Not sure where to go when you’re sick or hurt? Here’s a quick rule of thumb: your primary care doctor is great for checkups and things that can wait a few days. Express care may work for minor stuff like a sore throat or a sprained ankle when your doctor’s office is closed. But if you’re having chest pain, trouble breathing or something just feels really off — don’t wait,” said emergency medicine physician Dr. Tyler Fulks. “When it’s serious, the ER is the place to be. We are trained for emergencies and always ready, 24/7 - 365.”
Do you need the ER?
The emergency department is for true emergencies—life-threatening or severe conditions that require immediate medical attention. In many cases, calling 911 can start the lifesaving process even sooner. Calling 911 and activating EMS ensures you receive care even before you arrive to the hospital.
Head to the ER if you experience any of the following:
- Chest pain or difficulty breathing
- Stroke symptoms, such as face drooping, speech difficulty or arm weakness
- Heavy bleeding that won’t stop
- Head trauma or large wounds
- Loss of consciousness
- Severe abdominal pain
- Poisoning or overdose
- Severe allergic reactions
- Serious injuries from a car accident
When to go to Express Care
Express care clinics provide medical care when your primary doctor isn’t available. If you have a simple issue that you would normally take to your primary care doctor, express care may be appropriate. These clinics have the staff and equipment to treat various non-life-threatening conditions. With diagnostic tools, labs and X-ray machines, they can quickly assess and treat many minor medical issues. Express care centers also tend to have shorter wait times than the ED for addressing minor complaints.
Visit Express Care for:
- Sprains
- Minor cuts and bruises
- Ear infections
- Pink eye
- Common cold
- Sore throat
- Rashes or minor burns
- Muscle strains
SIU Medicine Express Care operates in Springfield at 3220 Atlanta Street. After a visit to an express care facility, you should follow up with your primary care provider.
When to visit your primary care office
For most health concerns, head to your primary care physician. Your primary care team knows your medical history and can provide continuity of care. Visit your doctor’s office for:
- Annual physical and wellness exams
- Vaccinations and routine screenings
- Follow-ups for chronic conditions
- Minor illnesses such as sore throats or coughs
- Medication management
- Preventative care and health guidance.
Choose the right care and get treated faster
Knowing where to go for medical care can save you time, money and stress. For life-threatening emergencies, call 911 or head directly to the ER. For urgent but non-life-threatening conditions, Express Care may be an appropriate choice. For annual check-ups, routine screenings, help managing chronic conditions or ongoing concerns, see your regular primary care provider.
