Last Updated on June 25, 2025 by ClinicNearMe
When you are sick or get injured, it can be confusing to decide where to go, urgent care or the emergency room (ER)? Both provide medical help, but are meant for different situations. This article will explain the difference so you can make the right choice for your health.
What Is Urgent Care?
Urgent care clinics are for health problems that need attention soon but are not life-threatening. You can visit these clinics without an appointment. Urgent care is usually faster and costs less than the emergency room.
Common Reasons to Visit Urgent Care:
- Cold or flu
- Minor cuts or burns
- Sprains or muscle pain
- Ear or throat infections
- Vomiting or mild stomach pain
- Pink eye or skin rash
- Fever (in adults and children)
If you have these symptoms, urgent care is the best option.
You can find urgent care clinics in your area by checking our page on Best Walk-in Clinics in Calgary.
What Is the Emergency Room (ER)?
The emergency room is for serious or life-threatening health problems. It is open 24 hours a day, and doctors and nurses are ready to help with emergencies.
Go to the ER if you have:
- Chest pain or signs of a heart attack
- Trouble breathing
- Heavy bleeding
- Head injuries
- Broken bones
- Seizures
- Sudden weakness or trouble speaking (possible stroke)
- Severe allergic reactions
- Suicidal thoughts or severe mental health issues
If you or someone else has these symptoms, call 911 or go to the emergency room immediately.
Cost and Waiting Time
| Place | Cost | Waiting Time |
|---|---|---|
| Urgent Care | Lower | Shorter (usually 15โ60 minutes) |
| Emergency Room | Higher | Longer (can be several hours) |
Many people visit the emergency room for minor problems because they do not know about urgent care. For smaller health issues, urgent care is faster and cheaper.
How to Decide
Ask yourself these questions:
- Is it life-threatening?
- Can I wait a few hours to see a doctor?
- Am I in severe pain?
- If the answer to question 1 is yes, go to the emergency room.
- If the answer to question 2 or 3 is no, urgent care is a better choice.
Useful External Resource
For live wait times and to find urgent care clinics near you, visit Medimap, a trusted Canadian service.
Summary
If you have a medical emergency, always go to the emergency room or call 911. For less serious health issues, urgent care clinics are quicker and less expensive.
If you want to find a nearby clinic, check our guide to Best Walk-in Clinics in Toronto.