Urgent care clinics are a convenient way to access medical assistance for non-life-threatening medical issues. People often go to urgent care when they are unable to visit their primary care physician, whether they aren’t able to get a timely appointment, it’s outside business hours, or they simply don’t have a doctor. If you’ve never visited an urgent care center, you might not quite understand how it all works. Before you check out an urgent care in Lexington, KY, read on for a few facts to know ahead of time.

Why Choose Urgent Care

Visiting urgent care is an ideal choice if you’re experiencing a minor medical issue. Whatever you’re facing might be ideal for visiting a doctor. However, doctor’s offices are often booked up in advance which can make getting a last-minute appointment difficult. In some cases, you may require medical attention outside normal doctor’s office hours such as on nights, weekends, or holidays. In these cases, urgent care is a great option to get the timely attention you need.

What You CAN Go to Urgent Care for

Urgent care is best for treating non-life-threatening injuries. Below are a few examples of what you can go to urgent care in Lexington, KY for:

 

• Bug stings
• Dehydration
• Diarrhea
• Flu, Cold, or Fever
• Mild breathing difficulties
• Minor allergic reactions
• Minor Burns
• Skin infections or rashes
• Sprains
• Strep throat
• Urinary Tract Infection (UTI)
• Vomiting

What You CAN’T Go to Urgent Care for

Urgent care clinics are only equipped to handle non-life-threatening conditions or injuries. If you are experiencing anything that’s considered a major medical issue, it’s better to visit the emergency room (ER). Below are a few examples of when to visit the ER:

• Moderate or severe burns
• Pregnancy-related problems
• Serious head, neck, or back injury
• Severe allergic reaction
• Severe dizziness
• Severe vomiting
• Shortness of breath or chest pain
• Stroke symptoms
• Suicidal or homicidal thoughts
• Unconsciousness
• Uncontrollable or heavy bleeding

What to Bring with You

Most urgent care centers do not keep extensive patient records, so even if you’ve been there in the past, they might not have your information on file. Bring any necessary medical documentation with you to your appointment, should you have it. Bring a list of any current medications you’re taking so the medical professional can provide proper treatment plans.

 

Before you choose which urgent care in Lexington, KY to visit, you will want to ensure you find one that accepts your current insurance. Otherwise, you would end up paying out-of-pocket for your visit. Bring your current insurance information and photo identification to your visit. You will be expected to pay for your visit, such as a copay, so be sure you have that will you as well. 

Urgent Care Hours

The biggest appeal of an urgent care facility is the hours. While most are open during normal business hours, they are also typically open on nights, weekends, and some holidays. This makes urgent care more convenient when you’re not able to see your primary care physician. Hours may vary by clinic, so before you head to urgent care in Lexington, KY, double-check their hours. 

Wait Times at Urgent Care

Urgent care takes patients first come, first serve. If the clinic is busy, you can expect a longer wait time. If you’re going to urgent care during any day or time when doctor’s offices are usually closed, you might experience a longer wait time. In most cases, you can call the urgent care center beforehand to get an estimated wait time to gauge how long it will take to see a healthcare professional. 

The Healthcare Professionals at Urgent Care

Urgent care facilities staff a variety of medical professionals including doctors, nurse practitioners, and physician assistants. While you might not see a doctor during your visit, any of the healthcare professionals you see can diagnose and prescribe treatment for various health conditions. The professional will typically recommend you see your primary care physician, should you have one, to follow up on your treatment plan. 

Conclusion

The convenience of urgent care is a wonderful option for those who need medical attention for minor issues. Now that you know what to expect, you can feel confident going to an urgent care in Lexington, KY to find relief for whatever ailment you’re facing. 

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