THE EMERGENCY ROOM  -

When it is NOT safe to wait

The ER at any hospital is for taking care of people whose life or health may be in danger if they don't get medical care right away. The best care is to have one PCP (primary care physician) who will oversee your care and address your ongoing medical needs. Going to the ER is not the best place to get medical care unless there is an actual emergency.

Examples of when to go to the ER:

• Chest pain
• Trouble breathing
• Bad burns
• Heavy bleeding that wont stop

Examples of ER misuse:

• Prescription refill
• Aches and pains (head, back etc.)
• Follow-up care
• Slight fever
• Cold/flu symptoms