Knowing where to go when you need medical care can save you time, money—and in some cases, your life. At Carolina QuickCare, we’re committed to helping North Carolina patients make the right decision when it comes to choosing between urgent care and the emergency room (ER).
This guide will help you understand when a visit to urgent care is appropriate and when it’s best to head to the ER.
What Is Urgent Care?
Urgent care clinics are designed to treat non-life-threatening illnesses and injuries that require prompt attention. At Carolina QuickCare, we offer walk-in medical care for patients of all ages—7 days a week, with extended evening hours for your convenience.
Common conditions treated at urgent care include:
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Cold and flu symptoms
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Ear infections
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Minor sprains and strains
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Cuts and minor burns
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Mild asthma or allergic reactions
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Urinary tract infections (UTIs)
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Sports physicals and DOT exams
Urgent care is often more affordable and faster than a hospital visit, especially when you’re facing a long wait in the ER for a non-emergency issue.
When Should You Go to the ER?
The emergency room is equipped to handle serious, life-threatening medical conditions that require immediate, specialized care.
Go to the ER for:
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Chest pain or symptoms of a heart attack
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Difficulty breathing
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Stroke symptoms (slurred speech, weakness on one side, sudden vision loss)
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Severe bleeding
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Serious head injuries
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Seizures
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Loss of consciousness
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Severe burns
If you’re experiencing any of these symptoms, call 911 or head to the nearest emergency room right away.
Urgent Care vs. ER: What’s the Difference?
| Condition | Urgent Care | Emergency Room |
|---|---|---|
| Cold, cough, sore throat | ✅ | ❌ |
| High fever with no other symptoms | ✅ | ❌ |
| Chest pain or shortness of breath | ❌ | ✅ |
| Minor sprains or simple fractures | ✅ | ❌ |
| Severe bleeding or trauma | ❌ | ✅ |
| Ear infections or pink eye | ✅ | ❌ |
| Stroke symptoms | ❌ | ✅ |
Why Choose Carolina QuickCare?
Carolina QuickCare is proud to be one of the fastest-growing urgent care providers in North Carolina, with 19 locations across the state and more on the way. Our goal is to make high-quality, convenient care accessible to every community we serve.
What you can expect from us:
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Walk-ins welcome
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Open 7 days a week
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Evening hours until 8 PM
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On-site labs and X-rays
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Friendly providers who care
Whether you’re at the coast, the Piedmont, or the mountains, there’s a Carolina QuickCare nearby ready to take care of you and your family.
Carolina QuickCare is Here for You!
Making the right choice between urgent care and the ER can ensure you get the care you need—without unnecessary costs or stress. For non-life-threatening health issues, Carolina QuickCare is here to help with fast, compassionate care when and where you need it most.
Find your nearest location and check in online at CarolinaQuickCare.com
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