Heart disease refers to a range of conditions affecting the heart, including coronary artery disease, arrhythmias, and heart failure. It is the leading cause of death globally, often resulting from plaque buildup in the arteries, which restricts blood flow. Key risk factors include high blood pressure, high cholesterol, smoking, obesity, in addition to  diabetes, a sedentary lifestyle, and a family history of heart disease. Men are at a higher risk earlier in life, but risk increases for everyone with age. Symptoms to watch for include chest pain or discomfort, shortness of breath, fatigue, dizziness, and swelling in the legs or feet. If you experience chest pain that radiates to the jaw or arm, sudden shortness of breath, or fainting, it could signal a heart attack. If you are experiencing troubling symptoms that might be related to the health of your heart, it is suggested that you visit an urgent care center immediately for evaluation, and to prevent further complications.

For more information about the role of urgent care at an urgent care center, contact one of our healthcare professionals from Summit Health Family & Urgent Care. Our healthcare professionals provide this type of care in an accessible, expert manner.

Urgent Care

Urgent care centers are medical facilities designed to provide immediate, non-emergency care for patients. These centers bridge the gap between primary care physicians and emergency rooms, offering a convenient alternative for individuals needing prompt medical attention without the severity warranting a visit to the emergency department.

Urgent care centers function as walk-in clinics, meaning no appointment is necessary. They typically operate with extended hours, including evenings and weekends, to accommodate patients outside regular office hours. Staffed by a team of healthcare professionals, including physicians, nurse practitioners, and physician assistants, these centers are equipped to handle a variety of medical issues.

Urgent care centers address a broad spectrum of conditions such as minor fractures, sprains, cuts requiring stitches, severe colds and flu, ear infections, urinary tract infections, and other non-life-threatening ailments. They also offer diagnostic services like X-rays and laboratory tests, facilitating quick diagnosis and treatment. Additionally, many urgent care centers provide routine services such as vaccinations, physical exams, and travel medicine.

Choosing to go to an urgent care center can be advantageous for several reasons. First, it can save time compared to the often lengthy wait times in emergency rooms. Second, the cost of care at an urgent care center is generally lower than that of an emergency room visit, making it a more economical option for non-emergency situations. Third, urgent care centers offer convenience with their extended hours and walk-in policy, making healthcare accessible when primary care providers are unavailable.

How long will I have to wait at an urgent care center? 

Wait times at urgent care centers are typically shorter than emergency rooms, but can vary depending on the number of patients and the severity of their conditions.

Are urgent care centers open on weekends and holidays? 

Many urgent care centers are open on weekends and holidays, offering extended hours to accommodate patients outside of regular office hours.

Can urgent care centers provide prescriptions? 

Yes, urgent care centers can prescribe medications as needed based on the diagnosis and treatment plan.