When you notice that you have developed health problems and need help from medical professionals, it can be hard to figure out where you should go to get the care you need. It is important to know the difference between when you should visit an emergency room (ER) for emergency care and when you should visit HealthLinc for primary care.
When Should I Visit HealthLinc or the ER?
To figure out where you should go, ask yourself if it is a life-or-death situation that needs attention right away. If the answer to that question is yes, go to the ER. If the answer to that question is no, go to HealthLinc.
HealthLinc:
HealthLinc is designed to provide primary care. If you have health needs that do not need immediate attention, you should contact your primary care provider.
Reasons to visit HealthLinc:
- Fever, sore throat, earache or flu-like symptoms
- Allergies or sinus infections
- Annual wellness exams and routine vaccines
- Cancer and wellness screenings
- Sprains or strains
- Minor cuts needing stitches
- Chronic health management
- Minor infections and illnesses
The ER:
The ER is designed for emergency care. If you have a health problem that needs to be treated immediately, you should go to the ER.
Reasons to visit the ER:
- Chest pain or difficulty breathing
- Head and neck injuries or confusion
- Sudden numbness or weakness
- Severe bleeding or burns
- Poisoning or overdose
- Broken bones
- Seizures or loss of consciousness
- Severe infections and illnesses
Why Should I Visit HealthLinc or the ER?
While both HealthLinc and the ER can help you with your health needs, primary care and emergency care have different purposes and move at different speeds.
HealthLinc:
Your HealthLinc primary care provider can help you prevent health problems, recognize new changes to your health, manage chronic conditions and improve your quality of life.
Building a relationship with your primary care provider is valuable. Your provider gets to know you better when you visit regularly, and that can help them understand your health and medical history. Visiting your primary care provider is also often more affordable than visiting the ER.
The ER:
The ER is great at providing 24/7 immediate care for those who are in emergency situations. Health problems can develop suddenly, and accidents can happen at any time, which is why the ER serves patients 24 hours a day.
The ER has the right equipment to treat critical health problems that need attention right away, and the staff knows how to handle emergency situations.
Where Can I Go for Primary Care?
HealthLinc has several you can visit for your primary care needs. HealthLinc’s mission is to create healthy communities so all people can live their best lives. Each time you visit your primary care provider at HealthLinc, you build a relationship with someone who cares about your health and overall quality of life.
Explore HealthLinc’s providers or call 888-580-1060 to learn more about choosing a primary care provider.
