Urgent care is different from the ER in many significant ways, and these differences will affect which place would best provide medical care in certain situations. When faced with a medical situation, consider the following when deciding between the emergency room and urgent care:

• The severity of the injury or illness — In cases that require immediate medical attention (difficulty breathing, chest pain), or in cases of a life-threatening emergency (stroke, heart attack, loss of limb), it is best to call 911 or visit the ER. For less, serious but still urgent illness or injury, an urgent care clinic will be able to provide appropriate care.

• The time of day medical care is needed — Because emergency rooms are staffed and open 24/7, they are typically the best bet for emergencies that happen in the middle of the night. Urgent care facilities tend to have more limited hours and may not be open to providing care at three in the morning.

Some conditions need to be treated immediately by medical specialists and should be treated at the ER as soon as possible, including:

• Chest pain or pressure
• Head injuries
• Seizures
• Uncontrolled bleeding
• Compound bone fractures
• Unexplained paralysis or weakness
• Any injury that is threatening to life
• Any injury that is threatening to limb

Most other conditions, like everyday medical situations, can be treated at urgent care, including:

• Minor sprains and strains
• Urinary tract infections
• Colds and flu
• Earaches
• Minor cuts and burns
• Vomiting and diarrhea
• Skin conditions

Yes, blood work and X-rays are commonly performed at urgent care clinics, including PrimeHealth Urgent Care. For these diagnostic tests and more, like EKGs, come to PrimeHealth Urgent Care today. We are equipped with accurate and reliable on-site diagnostic equipment so we can provide a more complete picture of care for our patients.

No, urgent care clinics are set up to accept walk-ins, meaning no appointment is necessary. At PrimeHealth Urgent Care, we understand how busy life can be and know that injuries and illnesses can happen at the most inopportune times, so we are happy to accept walk-in appointments. This allows our patients to receive care when it is most convenient for them, eliminating the need to take time off of work just to see the doctor.

Yes, urgent care clinics can provide routine healthcare services like annual physicals, wellness exams, vaccinations, and health screenings. If you need routine healthcare services and your primary care physician is not available or you do not want to wait for an appointment, come to PrimeHealth Urgent Care today.

PrimeHealth Urgent Care is dedicated to providing you with all of your urgent care needs. Our medical professionals are experienced in treating patients’ urgent health needs and can help you improve your quality of life. Call us today to book an appointment at our urgent care, or simply walk into our clinic. We are conveniently located at 3018 53rd Av East Bradenton, FL 34203. We serve patients from Bradenton FL, Oneco FL, West Samoset FL, Palmetto FL, Lakewood Ranch FL, Sarasota FL, and surrounding areas.