“Many people aren’t sure what counts as an emergency versus what can be handled at urgent care,” says Kerry Bellew, DO, urgent care doctor with Adena Health. “Knowing the difference ahead of time can save you time and money and get you feeling better sooner.”
Let’s help you get the right care faster, so you can focus on feeling better, not waiting longer.
Emergency department vs. urgent care: what’s the difference?
Emergency departments (EDs) are designed for serious or life-threatening emergencies — things like chest pain, stroke symptoms, or severe injuries. They’re open 24/7 and equipped with specialized teams for critical conditions.
Urgent care is ideal for everyday illnesses and injuries that can’t wait for a doctor’s appointment but don’t require the ED. Think urinary tract infections, sprains, or flu symptoms. You’ll be seen faster, often pay less, and can get many of the same services — including X-rays, lab tests, and prescriptions — in one convenient visit.
“A lot of people go straight to the ED because it’s always open,” says Dr. Bellew. “But urgent care is often the better choice for mild to moderate issues — you’ll get seen faster, and your visit will likely cost less.”
Choosing the right place for care doesn’t just save time. It can save hundreds in out-of-pocket costs and help you get back to your day faster.
When to go to urgent care
Urgent care is a smart choice when you want fast, affordable help for:
- Allergies and sinus infections
- Earaches and sore throats
- Fevers, flu, and RSV symptoms
- Minor burns, cuts, or sprains
- Vomiting and diarrhea
- Mild abdominal pain
- Rashes or allergic reactions
- Urinary pain or infections
- Eye irritation or minor eye injury
- Rapid strep, RSV, flu, and urine testing
- COVID-19 testing
- Sports or school physicals
With extended hours and on-site X-rays and labs, Adena Urgent Care can handle most non-emergency issues quickly — often in under an hour.
When to go to the emergency department
Go directly to the ED or call 911 for:
- Chest pain that radiates to your arm or jaw
- Difficulty breathing
- Fever with rash
- Major burns
- Severe head injury or sudden severe headache
- Severe abdominal pain
- Sudden confusion, weakness, or slurred speech
- Vomiting blood
- Pregnancy complications
If you’re unsure where to go, it’s always safer to err on the side of caution and head to the ED. Adena’s emergency teams are ready 24/7 to handle serious conditions.
Why choose Adena Urgent Care?
At Adena Urgent Care, you’ll find high-quality, convenient care close to home or work. We have extended hours seven days a week and a team of family-medicine-trained physicians and advanced practice providers who treat patients of all ages.
- Faster care: Most visits take less than an hour.
- Lower costs: You’ll typically pay far less than an ED visit.
- Right-sized care: Get the level of treatment you need — no more, no less.
- Coordinated care: If follow-up is needed, Adena Urgent Care can link you directly to primary or specialty care.
Our urgent care centers are part of the larger Adena Health system,” adds Dr. Bellew. “That means patients have a seamless experience — whether they just need a quick visit or a referral for specialized care.”
Being sick or injured is never convenient, but we are. Find an Adena Urgent Care near you or reserve your spot online at Adena.org/UrgentCare.
Meet our expert: Kerry Bellew, DO
Kerry Bellew, DO, earned his Doctorate of Osteopathic Medicine from the University of Pikeville – Kentucky College of Osteopathic Medicine. He served as a primary care physician from 2019 to 2022 before transitioning to his current role as an urgent care doctor with Adena Health.
Outside of work, Dr. Bellew enjoys photography, hiking, tennis, and spending time with his family.
“Being able to make a difference when someone is sick at their most inconvenient time is very rewarding,” he says.