If you are experiencing a life­threatening emer­gency, call 9­1­1 or your local emergency number. The emergency medical services staff will know where to transport you. If you decide to drive, it’s usually best to go to the nearest emergency department. If more specialized services are needed, emergency staff will know how to stabi­lize and transport you to a higher level of care.

EMERGENCY CARE OR URGENT CARE?

If you think you are having a medical emergency, seek emergency care. Urgent care centers are good options for common medical problems when a physician’s office is closed or unable to provide an appointment. They treat minor illnesses and injuries, such as flu, fever, earaches, nausea, rashes, animal and insect bites, minor bone frac­tures and minor cuts requiring stitching. Emergency depart­ments are prepared for every kind of medical emergency, including heart at­tacks, stroke, motor vehicle crashes, psy­chiatric emergencies and life­threatening conditions. They are available 24 hours a day, 365 days a year, and have special equip­ment and highly qualified physicians, physician assistants and nurses to respond to every kind of adult and childhood emergency.

If possible, make sure to tell family members to follow behind the ambulance to the hospital in order to answer necessary questions or provide the necessary documents.