Pediatric Urgent Care Vs. ER

Is there a difference between a regular Urgent Care and a Pediatric Urgent Care?

Yes! Pediatric Urgent Cares are staffed by providers who are specifically trained to see children.

When should you go to a Pediatric Urgent Care versus the Emergency Room?

Pediatric Urgent Care clinics specialize in lower acuity care for ailments that you may not want to wait until a scheduled appointment with your pediatrician. These could be conditions such as— a rash, fever, asthma, cough, croup, sore throat, earache, diarrhea, vomiting, sprains, minor broken bones, minor cuts, minor eye injuries or urinary tract infections.

Some instances require emergency medical care provided by the hospital. You should go to the hospital if an infant less than 90 days old has a fever greater than 100.3, if your child is poisoned, has a seizure, experiences severe bleeding, has major broken bones, is burned severely, or has head trauma with a loss of consciousness.

What to expect at your ffiirst visit to a Pediatric Urgent Care?

Much like going to your pediatrician’s office, you can expect to fill out paperwork – please always bring your ID and insurance cards to every visit. After filling out paperwork, you will be called back by a nurse who will ask you and your child questions about the reason for your visit. Vitals will be taken as well as any testing (flu, covid, strep, etc.). Then you will be seen by a provider – either a Nurse Practitioner, Physician Assistant or Physician. If prescriptions are necessary, they will be sent to your pharmacy. After your visit, you should expect a copy of your record to be sent to your primary pediatrician.

What does it cost to go to a Pediatric Urgent Care?

The cost for your visit will depend on your insurance. Most just charge a standard copay; however a visit to the urgent care is almost always cheaper than going to your local emergency room!

Pediatric Urgent Care is located at 5555 Whittlesey Blvd, Unit L1 in Columbus. It is open from 4-10pm on weekdays and from 10am-6pm on weekends. If you are uncertain where to go first, you can call 706-507-5577 for advice. For more info, visit www.pediatricacutecare.net.

april 9 7am (Sunrise) 9am + 11am