Pennsylvania hospitals are strained as the number of people they are treating for COVID-19 has surged to near-record levels. Many are caring for as many patients as they are able with the staff and beds they have available.
This means many patients who seek care at their local hospital’s emergency department are likely to experience long wait times.
Knowing where to go for the level of medical care you need can help you get care faster. You’ll also be helping your community by making sure hospitals are available to treat those patients who need emergency care the most.
The Pennsylvania Department of Health has put together a helpful guide on choosing where to seek care.
Your doctor’s office: In nonemergency settings, contacting your doctor’s office is a great first step. It can direct you to the best place to seek medical care and can even be reached after hours. Your doctor’s office can also answer questions about COVID-19 treatment, testing, and vaccines.
Urgent care: Urgent care centers are great choices when you need care that is not related to a life-threatening or severe emergency, especially if you don’t have a regular doctor or your doctor’s office is not available. Urgent care centers can:
- Treat mild illnesses and injuries, such as:
- Cold, flu, or fever
- Strains, sprains, or breaks
- Infections
- Mild burns
- Allergies
- Assist with COVID-19 testing, vaccination, and treatment for mild and moderate cases
Hospital emergency department: Going to the emergency department should be reserved for situations that require immediate medical attention, such as life-threatening illnesses, injury, or trauma. Hospital emergency departments should not be used for routine COVID-19 testing or similar, nonemergency needs. Visit the emergency department for:
- Chest pain
- Abdominal pain
- Stroke
- Severe head injuries
- Severe COVID-19 symptoms, including:
- Persistent chest pain
- Shortness of breath
- Confusion
- Inability to wake up or stay awake
- Pale, gray, and/or blue skin, lips, or nail beds
By choosing the right setting for medical care, you can get the care you need and help ensure our hospitals are available to treat all who need emergency care.