ER or urgent care?
The warning signs that mean go to the emergency room, what urgent care can handle, and the closest hospitals with an ER.
Call 911 for chest pain, trouble breathing, signs of a stroke (face drooping, arm weakness, slurred speech), heavy bleeding or a serious injury. If you're having thoughts of suicide, call or text 988.
Which one do you need?
Go to the ER or call 911
- Trouble breathing or shortness of breath
- Chest or upper belly pain or pressure lasting two minutes or more
- Fainting, sudden dizziness or weakness
- Changes in vision, or trouble speaking
- Confusion, unusual behavior or trouble waking up
- Any sudden or severe pain
- Bleeding that won't stop
- Coughing or vomiting blood
- Severe or persistent vomiting or diarrhea
- Unusual belly pain
- Thoughts of hurting yourself or someone else
Warning signs from the American College of Emergency Physicians. They are examples, not a complete list.
Urgent care is usually fine
- Minor cuts that may need a few stitches
- Sprains and strains
- Minor burns
- Fever, cold or flu symptoms without the warning signs above (a baby under 3 months with a fever needs the ER or a doctor right away)
- Sore throat or ear pain
- Painful urination
- Mild rashes and insect bites
If symptoms are severe, getting worse, or you're not sure, go to the ER.
The closest emergency rooms
For the closest ERs, use your phone's location: the list below is first based on an approximate location that can be miles off.
or search
More about ERs near you
Questions
When should I go to the ER instead of urgent care?
Go to the ER or call 911 for trouble breathing, chest pain or pressure, fainting, sudden weakness or confusion, changes in vision or speech, sudden severe pain, bleeding that won't stop, or coughing or vomiting blood. These can be signs of a heart attack, stroke or other emergency that needs a hospital.
Is urgent care cheaper than the ER?
Usually. Urgent care centers treat minor illnesses and injuries and generally cost less, and waits are often shorter. But an urgent care center can't treat a heart attack, stroke or serious injury, so in those cases go straight to the ER.
Should I drive myself to the ER?
Not if you have chest pain, signs of a stroke, trouble breathing or a serious injury. Call 911: paramedics can start treatment on the way, and the hospital is ready when you arrive.
What if I'm not sure?
If you're unsure and the symptoms are serious or getting worse, go to the ER or call 911. For milder symptoms, your doctor's office or your insurer's nurse line can help you decide.
Sources: warning signs: American College of Emergency Physicians, "Is it an emergency?". Hospitals, emergency rooms and ER visit times: Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS).
This page is general information, not medical advice. In an emergency, call 911.