What Services Does an Urgent Care Provide?

When you need to see a doctor, it can be difficult to get an appointment promptly. Urgent care centers allow patients to be seen the same day for a variety of conditions while avoiding an unnecessary trip to the emergency room. These locations are equipped with a diverse staff who can offer patients numerous helpful services.

What to expect in an urgent care facility

Many times, patients choose to visit an urgent care location for minor injuries and illnesses. However, many preventative care services are also available at these facilities.

Testing services

An urgent care center will typically have a lab on-site for a variety of bloodwork and tests. These can include:

• Rapid tests for the flu, strep, and COVID-19
• STD testing
• Pregnancy testing
• Drug screenings
• Blood glucose testing
• Metabolic panels
• Complete blood counts

Depending on the type of test, patients may be able to discuss the results with a physician the same day.

X-rays

Patients who may be dealing with a broken bone, pneumonia, or other issues will often need an X-ray for an accurate diagnosis. Urgent care centers are usually equipped with X-ray equipment for these types of screenings. Patients should expect to wear protective coverings during the procedure to help reduce any unnecessary radiation exposure. While X-rays should only be performed when necessary, they are considered safe for most patients. The benefits of an accurate diagnosis often far outweigh the risks of any minimal exposure.

Vaccinations

Waiting too long to get a vaccine appointment could put you at unnecessary risk for contracting many communicable diseases. Most standard vaccinations can be administered at an urgent care facility. This can also include some immunizations for children, such as the annual flu shot.

Treating minor injuries

While some situations require true emergency care, many minor injuries can be treated at an urgent care facility. Medical experts here can stitch up minor cuts, treat sprains or strains, and stabilize a broken bone until further treatment can be arranged.

Sick and well visits

If you are experiencing symptoms that require evaluation or prescription medication for treatment, an urgent care doctor can help. If you cannot be seen by your primary care physician, you can visit here instead for:

• Fevers
• Flu-like symptoms
• Dehydration
• Respiratory illnesses
• Abdominal issues, including pain, diarrhea, or vomiting

However, you do not have to be ill to benefit from visiting an urgent care center. You can also schedule required sports or work-related physicals at these locations. Some urgent care physicians will even conduct annual checkups for adults.

Conclusion

While some conditions warrant a visit to the emergency room, many minor illnesses and injuries can be treated in an urgent care center instead. This is also an excellent option for people who cannot wait to be seen by their primary care physician. Urgent care facilities allow patients to receive a variety of services and professional care promptly, making them a convenient option.

Whether you are dealing with an illness or an injury or need preventative care, we can help. Contact us today to learn more about the urgent care services we offer for better health.

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