Winter is coming, which means you’re going to see plenty of PSAs about flu shots and pneumonia shots. Choosing to act on those PSAs is up to you. But let’s say you do get the flu, a bad upper respiratory infection, or even slip and fall on the ice. Where should you go for quick care?
I hope none of these things happen to you. Yet, if they do, it’s important to know that urgent care can be a good alternative to the ER for illnesses and injuries that need prompt attention but aren’t life-threatening.
Urgent care centers are acute-care facilities staffed by physicians, physician assistants, nurse practitioners and nurses. Many have basic diagnostic equipment, including X-ray machines and laboratory testing, and can treat conditions such as respiratory infections, sore throats, sprains and urinary tract infections. Services vary by location, so it’s a good idea to check with a facility before you go.
For more serious or potentially life-threatening concerns, the ER is the place to start. If you are having severe trouble breathing, symptoms of a heart attack or stroke, uncontrolled bleeding, loss of consciousness or another emergency, call 911.
Let’s take a look at some common conditions and where you may want to seek care:
Persistent Cough – For a persistent cough, urgent care can be a good place to start. The practitioner can listen to your lungs, evaluate your symptoms and determine whether you need medication or additional care. If the cough is accompanied by significant difficulty breathing or other serious symptoms, however, the ER may be appropriate.
Chest Pain – New or unexplained chest pain is nothing to ignore. It could be something minor, or it could be your heart or lungs. There is no reliable way to determine the cause on your own. Sudden, severe or unexplained chest pain that lasts more than a few minutes warrants emergency care. If it is accompanied by trouble breathing, sweating, nausea, dizziness or fainting, call 911.
Sore Throat – Sore throats are annoying, but they can be caused by strep, a cold, coughing or allergies. Urgent care can examine and test for common causes and prescribe treatment when appropriate. If a sore throat is accompanied by difficulty breathing or swallowing, seek emergency care.
Broken Bone – This one is tricky. A finger or toe injury, sprain or some simple fractures may be treated at urgent care. But a visibly deformed limb, a bone that has broken through the skin, severe bleeding, numbness or discoloration requires emergency care.
Shortness of Breath – Sudden, severe or unexplained shortness of breath warrants emergency evaluation. It may be caused by something serious involving the heart or lungs. If you are having significant difficulty breathing, call 911 rather than driving yourself to the ER.
Urinary Tract Infection (UTI) – If you suspect a UTI, urgent care can collect a urine sample and evaluate your symptoms. Based on your symptoms and test results, the practitioner may prescribe an antibiotic. Recurrent UTIs should also be discussed with your primary care physician.
Urgent Care Facilities in South Philly
AFC Urgent Care South Philly
1444 W. Passyunk Ave.
Vybe Urgent Care
1217 S. Broad St.
There are also several urgent care facilities throughout Philadelphia outside of South Philadelphia. ••
Note: This article is not intended to offer official medical advice. Please speak to your physician or another qualified healthcare professional if you have health concerns. In an emergency, call 911.
