When a medical issue arises, knowing where to go can save you precious time, money, and peace of mind. At South Arkansas Regional Hospital (SARH), we want to empower you with the knowledge to make the right choice, whether that’s heading to urgent care or dialing 9-1-1 for emergency treatment.
When to Use Urgent Care
Urgent care centers are ideal for non-life-threatening situations that need prompt medical attention, when your primary care provider isn’t available or the issue can’t wait until tomorrow. They offer:
- Faster service and lower cost compared to the ER
- Basic diagnostics (such as blood tests and rapid infectious disease tests) and treatments: think minor cuts, sprains, infections, and rashes
- Convenient evening or weekend hours, though typically not 24/7
Typical reasons to visit urgent care include:
- Minor injuries: sprains, small fractures, cuts, or minor burns
- Infections: ear, throat, urinary tract, or skin
- Cold, flu, fever (moderate), congestion
- Muscle pain, headaches, minor digestive upset
- Animal or insect bites, rashes, minor allergic reactions
These centers are a smart, efficient option when your health concern is moderate but demands same-day attention.
When to Go to the Emergency Room
Head straight to the Emergency Room or call 9-1-1 if you’re facing a life-threatening or potentially serious condition where every minute counts. The ER provides:
- 24/7 access and a broad spectrum of specialists and advanced diagnostic resources
- Legal guarantee under federal law to treat any urgent or emergent condition, regardless of ability to pay
You should seek emergency care for conditions like:
- Chest pain or signs of heart attack
- Difficulty breathing, shortness of breath
- Stroke symptoms: slurred speech, facial drooping, arm weakness
- Uncontrolled bleeding, deep or compound fractures
- Loss of consciousness, seizures
- Severe abdominal or head pain, sudden vision loss, weakness/paralysis
- Severe burns, allergic reaction affecting breathing, poisoning
When in doubt, especially if it’s potentially serious, err on the side of going to the ER or calling for help immediately.
Quick Comparison: Urgent Care vs. Emergency Room
| Availability | Typically extended hours (not always 24/7) | Always open—24/7 |
| Wait Time | Usually shorter | Triaged based on severity; can be longer |
| Cost | Generally lower | Higher, due to advanced services and resource use |
| Services Offered | Basic diagnostics (laboratory and rapid tests), minor procedures | Advanced diagnostics, specialists, life-saving care |
| Examples of Suitable Cases | Mild infections, rashes, sprains, cuts | Chest pain, difficulty breathing, strokes, major trauma |
Tips to Help You Choose Wisely
- Know your symptoms. Use the lists above to guide your decision. If you’re unsure, calling a trusted medical provider or nurse line can help.
- Urgent vs. emergency:
- Moderate conditions: Try urgent care
- Serious or worsening conditions: Go to the ER immediately
- Avoid delays. If life is at risk, dial 9-1-1 or get to the ER without delay. Don’t hesitate.
- Cost awareness. ER visits typically have higher co-pays and out-of-pocket expenses. Urgent care is often the more cost-effective choice when appropriate.
- Plan ahead. Familiarize yourself with the locations and hours of your nearest urgent care and ER facilities. This can reduce anxiety in stressful moments.
Staying Prepared with SARH
At South Arkansas Regional Hospital, our emergency department is ready 24/7 for critical, life-threatening needs. In less urgent but time-sensitive situations, urgent care centers provide faster, cost-effective care. Know your options, save time, and receive the appropriate care when it matters most.
If you ever feel uncertain, feel free to reach out to your primary care provider—or call SARH directly. We’re here to help you make choices that are calm, informed, and centered on your well-being.