Perhaps you’re experiencing flu symptoms but can’t get an appointment with your family doctor for a few weeks. Or maybe you’ve sprained your ankle while running and are feeling discomfort that prevents you from carrying out routine tasks. These situations can usually be remedied at urgent care clinics, which are for the treatment of pressing medical needs that fall short of a true emergency. 

What Urgent Care Can Do for You

Most urgent care centers offer evening and weekend hours, which is helpful for people who work nine to five during the week. Wait times are typically brief, especially compared to those associated with emergency room treatment.

Urgent care can also be covered by insurance, which may pay for part or all of your visit. Consider a walk-in appointment if you think you have a urinary tract infection, if you are experiencing gastrointestinal issues like diarrhea, have a sore throat, eye irritation, moderate asthma, or require diagnostic testing like lab tests and x-rays. 

When Emergency Care Is Required

While urgent care is well-suited to many medical issues, some conditions need assessment by emergency room staff. For instance, significant injuries involving deep lacerations, gunshots, or compound fractures must be treated at an emergency room. The same can be said of severe pain in the chest or abdomen, sudden problems speaking or seeing, bleeding during pregnancy, head injuries, and altered mental state. If you’re unsure that emergency care is required, think about the nature of the problem. If you believe it could result in permanent impairment or loss of life, an ER is the best option.

The team at MediCenter in Kenai, AK, is experienced at treating minor emergencies without the inconvenience or exorbitant costs associated with ERs. They work with many different insurers and also offer low-cost options to patients without coverage. Same day and walk-in appointments are welcome. They also provide women’s health services, allergy testing, and physical therapy. Stop by the urgent care center today or call (907) 283-9118 for more info on hours and location. You can also visit their website to learn more.