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Where to go when illness strikes: A quick guide to getting the right care this respiratory season
This post was paid for and produced by our sponsor, Emerson Health, in collaboration with WBUR’s Business Partnerships team. WBUR’s editorial teams are independent of business teams and were not involved in the production of this post. For more information about Emerson Health, click here.
As the season of coughs, colds and flu takes hold, one question lingers: Where should you go when you or a family member needs medical attention? Understanding your options for care can make all the difference between a speedy recovery and a lengthy wait. You may be surprised to learn about the illnesses and injuries urgent care centers can treat, saving you a trip to the Emergency Room (ER). In the guide below, we map out where to go for your health concerns.
Primary care: your go-to for routine health concerns
For non-urgent concerns, your primary care provider (PCP) is the best place to start. Your PCP knows your medical history and can offer personalized care for a variety of common issues, including:
- Colds, flu and sore throat
- Ear, sinus or urinary tract infections
- Headaches or muscle pain
- Stomach problems like nausea or constipation
- Minor scrapes and bruises
- Managing chronic conditions
A visit to your PCP is essential in managing your long-term health. Beyond treating illnesses, your PCP is also key in managing chronic conditions, offering preventive care and conducting regular wellness checks.
If your PCP is unavailable during office hours or outside normal business hours (evenings or weekends), urgent care centers are a great alternative for quicker access to care.
Find a primary care provider at Emerson Health
Urgent Care: Fast, convenient care for non-emergencies
Sometimes, you need care quickly, but it is not an emergency. If you cannot get an appointment with your PCP, urgent care centers are an ideal option. Many people are unaware of the advanced care urgent care can provide. Knowing what urgent care offers can save you a trip to the ER.
Emerson Health’s urgent care centers offer extended hours with board-certified physicians, nurse practitioners, and other healthcare professionals trained to treat non-life-threatening conditions. With on-site X-ray, EKG, and lab services, Emerson’s urgent care centers can quickly diagnose and treat many conditions. You can request a spot in line in advance, check wait times, and receive text notifications to keep you informed and reduce time spent waiting.
For even more convenience, Emerson offers Virtual Urgent Care, allowing you to consult with a health professional from the comfort of your home. Whether you are at home or on the go, you can receive care when you need it most—without the wait.
Common issues treated at urgent care include:
- Cold, flu, COVID, RSV, sore throat
- General wound care, cuts or minor lacerations
- Sprains, strains, breaks and fractures
- UTIs and other infections
- Minor burns, rashes or insect bites
- Poison ivy or other skin issues
Learn more about urgent care and virtual visits
Emergency Room: Immediate care for life-threatening conditions
When it comes to serious injuries or life-threatening conditions, the Emergency Room (ER) is your destination. If you are experiencing any of the following, do not hesitate to go to the ER or call 911 immediately:
- Chest pain or difficulty breathing
- Severe burns, cuts or lacerations
- Head, eye or neck injuries
- Intense abdominal pain
- Fainting, changes in mental state or slurred speech
- Sudden weakness or numbness, especially on one side of the body
In emergencies, every minute counts. If you are ever uncertain about the severity of a situation, it is always better to be cautious and seek immediate help.
Choosing the right care for your health
Understanding where to go for care ensures you get the right treatment promptly—while also keeping emergency resources available for those who need them most.
Whether it is a routine visit to your PCP, a virtual visit from home, a quick trip to urgent care, or the ER, knowing where to go will save you time and enhance your overall experience.
