Healthy You: Opt for CarePlus Clinic to ease ER wait times for minor issues

Patients often face the dilemma of where to seek treatment for minor conditions, choosing between the emergency room and the CarePlus Clinic, which caters specifically to acute care needs.

The CarePlus Clinic treats minor health issues such as urinary tract infections, upper respiratory infections, sore throats, earaches and rashes, according to Dr. Mitch Wolfe, a physician at the clinic. He emphasizes that patients should avoid the emergency room for non-emergency symptoms, a crucial step for maintaining effective health care delivery.

Dr. Wolfe outlined the types of conditions treated at CarePlus: “CarePlus is an acute care clinic and we see minor conditions such as urinary tract infections, upper respiratory infections, sore throats, earaches, rashes, those kinds of things.” He also stressed the importance of recognizing when to seek immediate medical attention. He noted, “Any time that you have severe chest pain, shortness of breath, stroke-like symptoms, you know, weakness on one side of the face, or speech difficulties, any time that you have an acute change from whatever your baseline is that is dramatic and debilitating, would always, always merit your evaluation.”

Increased patient volume during the cold and flu season leads to wait times in emergency departments longer. Dr. Jordan Memmott explained, “Volume in the emergency department really fluctuates. Sometimes we have good days and sometimes we have bad days. But this time of year, in particular, wait times can be really prolonged. A lot of that does unfortunately happen because we just have increased numbers because of the cold and flu season.” He recommends that for non-emergent matters, patients should visit CarePlus or an urgent care center instead.

Emergent situations can lead to higher costs associated with emergency room visits. Dr. Wolfe remarked, “I think nationally, there’s quite a price difference” between emergency care and minor conditions treated at clinics. This emphasizes the cost-saving benefits of utilizing appropriate care facilities for different medical needs.

Patients are also encouraged to consult their primary care providers before visiting the emergency room, especially if they do not have emergency symptoms. Dr. Wolfe stated, “We also offer telemedicine, and you can call in, and if that is appropriate, may be able to be treated in that manner and not have to come in at all. So it just depends on the availability and what your needs are.”

By using CarePlus Clinic for minor conditions and connecting with primary care for guidance, patients can help keep emergency rooms available for those who need immediate attention.

Learn more about levels of care at United Regional.