Every year, millions of Americans find themselves battling cold and flu symptoms — with an estimated 1 billion cases of the common cold and around 45 million cases of influenza occurring annually in the United States. These widespread illnesses not only cause discomfort and inconvenience but also result in significant economic impact, with adults missing an average of four to five work days every year and children absent from school for the same amount of days per school year for flu-like illness.
The common cold alone accounts for approximately 40% of time lost from work in the U.S. While these ailments are often self-limiting, faster access to high-quality medical care can help patients feel better sooner by alleviating symptoms and allowing them to return to their normal activities and routines more quickly.
Read on to learn how same-day sick visits can help you or your child get better faster and the best place to get a same-day doctor appointment in East Brunswick.
What Care Can I Receive With a Same-Day Sick Visit?
Same-day sick visits offer a wide range of care options similar to those available at urgent care clinics. At a same-day sick visit, patients can expect fast and comprehensive healthcare tailored to their specific needs. These visits typically include a thorough examination by a healthcare professional who can provide expert diagnosis and personalized treatment plans.
If necessary, diagnostic services such as x-rays and laboratory tests can be performed on-site, enabling quick and accurate assessments of a health condition. This efficient approach allows healthcare providers to address various acute illnesses and minor injuries promptly, ensuring patients receive the appropriate care and treatment to speed up recovery.
When to Consider a Same-Day Sick Visit
A same-day sick visit is an excellent option when you're experiencing sudden, non-emergency health issues that require prompt attention but don't warrant a trip to the emergency room. These visits are also designed to address acute illnesses and minor injuries quicker than waiting for a scheduled appointment with a primary care physician.
Some of the most common conditions that people seek same-day sick visits for include:
- Fever, cold, or flu-like symptoms
- Sore throat or symptoms of strep throat
- Ear pain, which could be a sign of an ear infection
- Sinus congestion, which could be caused by a sinus infection or allergies
- Minor cuts or burns
- Sprains or strains
- Symptoms of a urinary tract infection (UTI)
- Skin rashes or skin infections
- Non-life-threatening allergic reactions
- Mild to moderate asthma symptoms
- Nausea, vomiting, or diarrhea
By seeking timely care for these issues, you can often prevent them from worsening and receive the treatment you need to recover more quickly.
The Difference Between a Same-Day Sick Visit and Going to the ER
While both same-day sick visits and emergency room visits provide immediate medical care, they serve different purposes and are designed to handle different levels of medical urgency in East Brunswick.
Same-day sick visits are ideal for non-life-threatening conditions that require prompt attention. These visits typically offer:
- Shorter wait times
- A highly-personalized level of care
- More cost-effective option when compared to an ER visit
On the other hand, emergency rooms are equipped to handle severe, life-threatening conditions like heart attacks, strokes, severe trauma, or major accidents. ERs have advanced medical equipment and specialists on hand to deal with critical situations.
It's important to assess the severity of your condition when deciding between a same-day sick visit and an ER visit. Choosing the appropriate care option ensures you receive the right level of treatment while helping to reduce unnecessary strain on emergency services.
Find the Best Primary Care Doctor for Sick Visits in East Brunswick
At Hyatt Health and Wellness, Dr. Hyatt and her dedicated team are committed to providing exceptional, patient-focused care for your entire family's health needs, including same-day sick visits.
With years of experience and a deep understanding of acute illnesses and minor injuries, Dr. Hyatt takes a comprehensive approach to urgent care. Whether you're battling a sudden flu, dealing with an ear infection, or need attention for a minor injury, the Hyatt Health team is ready to provide prompt, effective care to help you feel better faster.