Suggestions as to when to send to ER versus Urgent Care

[surgblumm]

http://www.drugs.com/news/er-urgent-care-74611.html?utm_source=ddc&utm_medium=email&utm_campaign=Today%27s+news+summary+-+May+31%2C+2018&utm_content=The+ER+or+Urgent+Care%3F

[camoman1234]

Good topic, but how does one educate patients what a "serious burn" is or "severe bleeding or pain" is....I could see a patient walking into the UC with a full thickness burn to 25% of their body (mostly legs) wanting help... This will be the patients making medical decisions on where to go and how bad "it" is. When I worked UC, we handed everyone a pamphlet to take home that shows/tells them what is UC material and what is ER material. Too many factors going on...

[surgblumm]

Super comment Camoman. I agree , which puts another idea or perspective into play. PAs were commenting on their desire to write an article and “When should I go to an Urgent Care Clinic?” And “”when should I go to an Emergency Room?” Are two great subjects. The can be sent to the Urgent Care Association or Urgent Care Journal for publication. These types of questions are also great to portray the PA in local newspapers. This type of information needs to be dispersed to those that require the services of either.

[ventana]

the article....

 

The ER or Urgent Care?

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WEDNESDAY, May 30, 2018 -- Urgent care centers are popping up across the country as an option for medical treatment. But it's important to know the differences between these facilities and your local hospital emergency department.

The ER is for life-threatening situations, yet many people go there when urgent care is more appropriate. According to one study, nearly half of ER patients whose ailment didn't warrant being admitted to the hospital had gone to the ER simply because their doctor's office wasn't open.

Urgent care would have been more appropriate -- and less expensive. Out-of-pocket costs are likely lower than for an ER visit, especially if the facility is in your health insurance network.

Realize, too, that the emergency department treats people in order of need, so you may have a longer wait time. Urgent care centers usually see people on a first-come, first-served basis.

Here are some examples of reasons to seek urgent care:

• Fever and flu symptoms.
• Minor injury.
• Painful urination.
• Severe sore throat.

More serious problems, like severe pain and difficulty breathing, as well as traumatic injuries, do need screening and treatment at the ER.

In serious emergencies, driving to the ER won't get you help fast enough. It's safer to call 911, especially in life-threatening situations. Paramedics can start care immediately.

Here are some reasons to go to the ER:

• Any sign of stroke, including paralysis, difficulty speaking, altered mental status or confusion.
• High fever or fever with a rash.
• Persistent chest pain, shortness of breath or wheezing.
• Serious burn.
• Serious fall or an injury involving the head or eyes, a broken bone, deep cut or dislocated joint.
• Severe bleeding or pain.
• Sudden, severe headache or loss of vision.

If you're unsure what constitutes an emergency or what costs will be covered, contact your insurer before you need any of these services. If you're ever in doubt, go to your closest ER. But if the problem is simply that you just can't reach your doctor, consider urgent care.

More information

Scripps Health has more tips on how to choose between the ER or urgent care.

[True Anomaly]

24 minutes ago, ventana said:

Here are some reasons to go to the ER:

• Any sign of stroke, including paralysis, difficulty speaking, altered mental status or confusion.
• High fever or fever with a rash.
• Persistent chest pain, shortness of breath or wheezing.
• Serious burn.
• Serious fall or an injury involving the head or eyes, a broken bone, deep cut or dislocated joint.
• Severe bleeding or pain.
• Sudden, severe headache or loss of vision.

I agree with all of the above, except what I highlighted.  

[cc56]

I would add go to UC  "When all you want is a work note (and you are fine), but you are going to say all of this crazy stuff to make sure you get the work note"    Example....  I have substernal crushing chest pain with it radiating to my neck and down my left arm, and a cough and shortness of breath.   2 hours later in the ER....  Why is it taking so long, I just wanted a work note because I had a cough and missed work yesterday.   

[surgblumm]

Isn't it a shame that people really go to this extent to get a note and that the UCC is willing to provide it.