Call an ambulance or go to the emergency room (ER) if symptoms are life threatening or severe. Urgent care is best for mild injuries or illnesses that need same-day attention. Make an appointment with a primary care physician or specialist for all other concerns.

Understanding your symptoms or reasons for seeking medical care can help you decide whether to visit a facility that accepts walk-ins or schedule an appointment.

The most pressing medical concerns are routed to the ER, which does not accept appointments. During intake, a triage nurse will assess your condition to ensure people are seen in order of medical need.

Urgent care facilities are often used as a catch-all for care that can wait a day or two if needed. Although some urgent care facilities accept appointments, they aren’t required. You’ll likely be seen based on order of arrival.

If you have mild symptoms that linger but do not worsen, consider making an appointment with a healthcare professional. This is sometimes known as a “sick visit.”

Follow-up visits for chronic condition management and “well visits,” which focus on preventive care, are also available by appointment only.

In some cases, immediate medical intervention is needed to prevent further harm or fatal complications. ERs are usually open 24/7.

Seek emergency medical care if you experience:

Some of the most common conditions treated at the ER include:

Urgent care facilities have extended hours, accept walk-ins, and are less expensive than the ER. They’re ideal for situations that need prompt attention but are not life threatening, such as:

You don’t have to make an appointment to go to an urgent care center, but it could save you time in the waiting room.

You might find it helpful to schedule a same-day or next-day appointment for:

Some of the most common conditions treated at urgent care include:

These concerns are typically considered low priority for an ER, but are often too time-sensitive to delay until your usual healthcare professional or specialist has an opening.

If you have ongoing symptoms that are not severe, such as joint pain, fatigue, or frequent colds, a primary care physician is the best person to help.

Primary care physicians provide comprehensive care, including preventive services and chronic condition management. This includes:

Your local health department likely offers free or reduced-fee services. Many community health centers also offer lower cost care, though this may vary depending on the program and location.

Telehealth is an increasingly accessible option. You can speak with a healthcare professional via video or phone, wherever you are. This is especially useful for minor illnesses, medication questions, or follow-up visits.

If you don’t have access to a personal computer or phone, talk with the staff at your local public library. Libraries usually have a computer room or devices that you can check out for free using a library card.

Although some online platforms offer discounts for paying out of pocket or advertise rates that are less than a typical copayment or coinsurance cost, it’s important to read the fine print.

Ensure you understand what your upfront cost is and whether there are recurring charges or membership fees.

Seeking medical care should not be overwhelming. Here are some steps you can take to navigate the process more confidently:

  • Track your symptoms: Write down what you’re experiencing, when it started, and any patterns you’ve noticed. This can help you determine when to forgo at-home treatment and seek medical attention.
  • Review your coverage: If you have insurance, it’s important to know what your plan covers and what out-of-pocket costs to expect. Many insurers have care navigators who can help you decide where to go.
  • Use online tools wisely: While symptom checkers and search engines can provide basic information, rely on trusted sources like your doctor or established health systems when making decisions.
  • Start small: If you’re unsure where to begin, start with a call to a primary care office or a telehealth visit. You can be guided to the right level of care without making unnecessary trips.
  • Consider alternatives: Some pharmacies offer walk-in care for common illnesses like strep throat or minor infections.
  • Ask questions: Do not be afraid to ask your healthcare professional about the necessity of a test, the expected course of your condition, or alternative treatments. Understanding your care can help you feel more in control.
  • Plan ahead: Identify a local urgent care center, find your closest emergency room, and save the name of a telehealth provider. Knowing where to go can save time, reduce stress, and lower your medical bills.

In some cases, you can choose to wait and see how your symptoms develop before seeking care. For example, a single headache without other symptoms, a sore muscle after exercise, or mild seasonal allergies may not require medical evaluation.

If your condition improves with rest, hydration, or over-the-counter remedies, you may not need to schedule an appointment. However, trust your instincts. If something feels off or symptoms recur, it’s best to consult a healthcare professional.