When to Visit the Emergency Department vs. a Walk-in Clinic
When you’re dealing with a medical condition or an illness, the last thing you want to worry about is trying to figure out where you should go. Knowing ahead of time can save a great deal of stress, but how are you supposed to know whether your condition warrants a visit to the Emergency Department or a Walk-in Clinic? Next time you’re sick or hurt, save yourself the anxiety — learn more about each location, the services they provide, and when you should visit each.
When to Visit the Emergency Department
When time is of the essence, don’t wait — visit the Emergency Department. ED visits should be reserved for severe or life-threatening injuries or conditions. These can include heart attack, stroke, traumatic injury, debilitating pain, or loss of consciousness. Admittedly, determining if a medical condition warrants an ED visit can be difficult for many people. However, if you or someone you know is suffering from any of the following symptoms, the condition may be considered a medical emergency:
- Acute abdominal pain, which could be a sign of appendicitis
- Asthma-related conditions
- Broken bones
- Consistent vomiting
- Consuming a poisonous substance
- Head and spine injuries or other serious injuries to bones or soft tissue
- High fever (103° or higher in adults, or 100° sustained over a long period of time; 102-103° in older children; 100.4° or higher in babies 3 months or younger)
- Profuse bleeding
- Severe, unrelenting headaches
- Shortness of breath or difficulty breathing
- Sudden blurred vision
- Suicidal feelings or other mental distress symptoms
- Tight or painful feeling in chest
- Unusual behavior, confusion, or disorientation
When to Visit the Walk-in Clinic
Sometimes, an illness or condition can’t wait for an appointment but doesn’t rise to the level of an emergency. For mild to moderate illnesses that need immediate attention, visit the Walk-in Clinic. As the name implies, new and existing patients are treated on a walk-in basis — no appointment needed — for routine medical services. Illnesses and conditions treated at the Walk-in Clinic include:
- Allergies
- Common cold symptoms like coughs, sore throats, and upper respiratory conditions
- Conjunctivitis
- Earaches or ear wax issues
- Musculoskeletal issues and minor injuries like sprains and strains
- Oral or tooth pain
- Painful or burning urination
- Rashes and other skin irritations
- Sports physicals
- STI checks
Still not sure where to turn? We’re here for you — contact Warner Hospital & Health Services at (217) 935-9571 and see how we can connect you with the right medical care when you need it most. If you or someone you know is suffering from a medical emergency, call 911 immediately — do not call the hospital.
