Browse Urgent Care by City
Urgent Care vs. Emergency Room
Knowing where to go when you are sick or injured can save you time, money, and stress.
Go to Urgent Care for:
- Colds, flu, fever
- Ear or sinus infections
- Minor cuts needing stitches
- Sprains and minor fractures
- Urinary tract infections
- Rashes and skin infections
- Mild asthma or allergic reactions
- X-rays and lab tests
Go to the ER for:
- Chest pain or pressure
- Difficulty breathing
- Signs of stroke
- Severe head injury
- Heavy or uncontrolled bleeding
- Loss of consciousness
- Severe allergic reaction
- Poisoning or overdose
If you are unsure, call 911 or go to your nearest ER. When in doubt, err on the side of caution.

What to Expect at an Urgent Care Visit
Urgent care centers are designed to get you in and out quickly. Most visits follow this process:
- Check in — Walk in or check in online. Bring your insurance card and a photo ID.
- Triage — A nurse will take your vitals and note your symptoms.
- See a provider — A physician or NP will examine you. Typical wait: 15–45 min.
- Treatment — Receive on-site care, a prescription, lab work, or a referral.
- Discharge — Leave with instructions and follow up with your doctor if needed.
Frequently Asked Questions
What conditions can urgent care treat?
Urgent care centers treat a wide range of non-life-threatening conditions including colds, flu, ear infections, minor cuts and lacerations, sprains and strains, urinary tract infections, rashes, mild asthma, and minor burns. Many locations also offer X-rays, lab tests, and vaccinations.
How late are urgent care centers open?
Most urgent care centers are open until 8pm or later on weekdays and weekends. Some locations offer extended hours until 10pm, and a smaller number operate 24 hours. Use the city listings above to find exact hours for clinics near you.
Do I need an appointment for urgent care?
Most urgent care centers accept walk-ins without an appointment, which is one of their main advantages over a primary care doctor. Some locations allow you to check in online or reserve a spot in line ahead of time.
Does urgent care accept insurance?
Most urgent care centers accept major insurance plans including commercial insurance, Medicare, and Medicaid. It is always a good idea to call ahead and confirm your specific plan is accepted. Many locations also offer transparent self-pay pricing if you are uninsured.
How much does urgent care cost without insurance?
A typical urgent care visit without insurance costs between $100 and $200 for a basic visit. Additional services like X-rays, lab work, or stitches will add to that cost. Many clinics post their self-pay rates online or will quote you a price when you call.
Is urgent care faster than the emergency room?
Yes, for non-emergency conditions urgent care is almost always faster and less expensive than an ER. Emergency rooms prioritize life-threatening cases, so wait times for minor issues can be several hours. Urgent care average wait times are typically 15 to 45 minutes.