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There’s no convenient time for illness or injury, and it can feel especially overwhelming when your primary care provider (PCP) is unavailable. Whether you are seeking care after hours or facing a long appointment wait time, understanding your options can help you make confident decisions to receive the care you need.
Inspira offers emergency care and urgent care services across South Jersey, ensuring patients can access exceptional care close to home. “Knowing when to choose an ED versus urgent care is key to receiving timely and appropriate treatment while helping preserve ED resources for those who need them most,” said William Bennett, D.O., a physician at Inspira Medical Group Urgent Care.
When to visit an Inspira emergency department
EDs are open 24/7 and equipped to handle severe or life-threatening medical conditions. Patients are seen based on the urgency of their condition, with those experiencing critical emergencies receiving immediate attention. Seek emergency care immediately if you or someone you’re with is experiencing symptoms such as:
- Chest pain or difficulty breathing
- Severe abdominal pain
- Uncontrolled bleeding
- Sudden paralysis or stroke symptoms
- Head injury or loss of consciousness
- Severe burns or cuts
- Coughing or vomiting blood
For life-threatening situations, always call 9-1-1 or go to the nearest ED.
When to visit an Inspira urgent care center
“Urgent care offices treat non-life-threatening conditions that require prompt attention,” said Dr. Bennett. With shorter wait times and lower costs compared to an ED visit, urgent care centers are a convenient option for addressing a wide range of health concerns, including:
- Minor injuries like cuts requiring stitches
- Mild fevers, flu symptoms or rashes
- Sore throat, earaches or sinus infections
- Sports injuries, sprains or strains
- Vomiting, diarrhea or mild dehydration
Inspira’s urgent care centers also offer X-rays, on-site access to commonly prescribed medications, flu and COVID-19 shots and year-round physicals for school and sports requirements. For added convenience, you can download the MyInspira app for secure check-in before arriving at your in-person appointment.
Understanding when to seek care
Making the best health care choice starts with assessing the severity of your condition and your options.
Reach out to your PCP for:
- Routine check-ups and wellness visits
- Chronic condition management for diabetes, asthma and hypertension
- Cold, flu, COVID-19 or sinus symptoms
- Medication questions or prescription refills
- Preventive screenings or health advice
“If your PCP isn’t available, urgent care can bridge the gap for non-urgent concerns that still need timely attention,” said Dr. Bennett.
Schedule an urgent care appointment for:
- Minor cuts, burns or injuries
- Flu- or COVID-like symptoms or mild fevers
- Coughs, colds or earaches
- Skin rashes, bruises or bites
- Sprains, strains or minor fractures
Visit the ED for:
- Chest pain, difficulty breathing or stroke symptoms
- Severe injuries, burns or bleeding
- Sudden confusion, seizures or loss of consciousness
- Symptoms of poisoning or allergic reactions
Additional resources
Not sure where to go? For non-life-threatening concerns, call your PCP for guidance or dial 1-800-INSPIRA. Call 9-1-1 immediately if you believe your condition is life-threatening.
Whether you’re visiting an Inspira ED or urgent care center, you can expect to receive compassionate care from experienced providers to support your health and well-being.
