When you or your family aren’t feeling well, knowing where to go for care can make all the difference. Choosing the right level of care helps you get treated faster, lowers your costs, and ensures emergency resources are available for those who truly need them. Here’s a simple guide to help you decide between the Emergency Room, Urgent Care, or Same-Day Visits and Primary Care right here at ONE Health Ohio.
Emergency Room (ER): For Life-Threatening Emergencies
The ER is designed for serious, potentially life-threatening conditions that require immediate attention.
Go to the ER if you experience:
- Chest pain or pressure
- Difficulty breathing
- Signs of stroke (face drooping, arm weakness, speech difficulty)
- Severe bleeding or head injury
- Loss of consciousness
- Severe burns or trauma
What to expect:
ERs prioritize the most critical cases first, so wait times can vary. This is also the most expensive level of care but essential in emergencies.
Urgent Care: When It Can’t Wait, But Isn’t an Emergency
Urgent care is a great option for issues that need prompt attention but aren’t life-threatening.
Go to urgent care for:
- Minor fractures or sprains
- Cuts that may need stitches
- Open after-hours for treatment of minor injuries or illnesses.
What to expect:
Shorter wait times than the ER and lower costs. Most visits are handled quickly so you can get back home sooner.
Same-Day Visits: Fast Care from Your Trusted Team
ONE Health Ohio offers same-day appointments for patients who need care quickly but want to stay within their primary care team.
Schedule a same-day visit for:
- Fever, cold, cough, flu or sinus infections
- Ear infections or sore throat
- Mild infections or rashes
- Medication concerns or refills
- Minor injuries
- Mild asthma symptoms
- Vomiting or diarrhea without severe dehydration
- Ongoing symptoms that need quick evaluation
What to expect:
You’ll be seen by a clinician who knows your medical history, ensuring more personalized and coordinated care.
Primary Care: Your First Stop for Overall Health
A primary care physician is your first point of contact for comprehensive and continuous medical care.
Visit your PCP for:
- Immunizations
- Labor & Industry (also known as workers’ comp) for injuries that happen on the job
- Management of chronic conditions or pain
- Management of ongoing allergies
- Medication review
- Yearly check-ups and screenings
- Yearly child wellness checks and sports physicals
What to expect:
- Continuity of care, long-term health planning, and a clinician who understands your full health picture.
Not Sure Where to Go? Start Here
If you’re unsure which option is best, start by calling ONE Health Ohio. Our team can help guide you to the right level of care and even schedule a same-day visit when appropriate.
After-Hours Care
Health concerns don’t always happen during business hours. ONE Health Ohio offers after-hours support to help you decide what to do next whether that’s scheduling an appointment, or seeking urgent or emergency services.
Need help when we’re closed?
ONE Health Ohio After-Hours Number: 1-833-236-0848
At ONE Health Ohio, we’re here to make sure you get the care you need when you need it.
Making the Right Choice Matters
Choosing the right place for care:
- Reduces your wait time
- Saves you money
- Keeps emergency services available for critical needs
- Ensures you get the most appropriate treatment
Your health matters and getting the right care at the right time is key. ONE Health Ohio is here to support you every step of the way.