When to Seek Medical Care: ER, Urgent Care, or Doctor?

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Mild chest discomfort in the early morning, a high fever on a Saturday that doesn't respond to pain relievers, or dizziness after a fall—when should you call your doctor, visit an urgent care clinic, or head to the ER?

"Going to the ER can be time-consuming and stressful," says Kevin Biese, director of geriatric emergency medicine at UNC School of Medicine. However, safety should always come first. Here's expert advice to guide you in key situations.

Call 911 Immediately For urgent problems, get to an ER quickly by ambulance. "Ambulances provide lifesaving care en route and communicate with the hospital," Biese says. EMTs can determine the best hospital for your condition, such as a stroke center for stroke symptoms, where timely clot-busting drugs are critical. When to Call 911:

Chest pain Shortness of breath Facial drooping Arm weakness Speech difficulty Head injury with confusion or unconsciousness Choking or breathing stoppage Spine or neck injury Severe burn Seizure Electric shock or lightning strike

Go to the ER For respiratory symptoms with shortness of breath, head injuries, deep cuts, or intense vomiting, go to the ER. Notify your doctor's office if possible.

Call Your Doctor For less urgent situations like a pulled muscle, call your doctor's office. Many practices reserve same-day appointments for urgent needs.

Consider Urgent Care For non-life-threatening illnesses and injuries, urgent care clinics are a good option, especially after hours. They handle sprains, minor infections, and routine testing.

Pharmacy walk-in clinics at CVS, Target, Walgreens, and Walmart are also good options for minor issues, often with extended hours for evening and weekend care.