Urgent care providers offer convenient, time-saving alternatives to visiting an emergency room for minor, non-life-threatening medical conditions. These healthcare centers typically have shorter wait times and offer services like X-rays, urgent treatment of colds and flu, sprains, strains, and fractures, on-site lab tests, and physicals. Urgent care centers provide efficient diagnoses of various health problems, ranging from minor to severe. Some are also equipped with on-site lab testing capabilities so that patients can get results quickly and conveniently.
On-Site Lab Testing in Maryland at Urgent Care Providers
Lab test results are an essential part of diagnosing and treating health issues. At urgent care centers in Maryland, staff can draw blood or perform tests such as urine testing to determine if certain illnesses or diseases are present.
This allows the provider to provide accurate diagnoses and make informed treatment decisions in a timely manner, helping patients get better sooner rather than later. By providing this level of diagnostic accuracy and convenience, urgent care centers make it easier for people to access quality healthcare and obtain lab results the same day or within the next few days. Most urgent care centers offer lab testing on a walk-in basis. Here are some of the tests you can expect to access at an urgent care walk-in clinic:
- STD testing
- Cholesterol testing
- Flu testing
- Strep throat testing
- Arthritis panel
- Mononucleosis diagnosis
- Thyroid panel
- Urine test for infection or drug use (employment physicals)
Urgent care centers are ideal for anyone needing quick access to lab testing services without the hassle of scheduling appointments at traditional medical facilities.
When Should I Go to an Urgent Care Walk-In Clinic in Maryland?
You should visit an urgent care center in Maryland when your health issue is not life-threatening. Some common examples of symptoms, conditions, and occurrences that can be treated at urgent care centers include:
- Sprains, strains, or broken bones
- Cuts and scrapes that may need stitches
- Cold and flu-like symptoms
- Earaches
- Sore throats and strep throats
- Fever
- Rashes and skin-related illness
- Urinary tract infections and STD
- Labs and vaccinations
- Pneumonia, asthma or respiratory illnesses
- Minor burns or wounds (first or second degree)
- Workplace related injuries
- Stomach and abdominal pains – diarrhea, nausea or vomiting
If the injury or illness requires medical assistance within 24 hours, then the best course of action is to visit an urgent care center. Suppose you are experiencing severe pain or discomfort, such as difficulty breathing, chest pains, or other potentially life-threatening conditions. In that case, it is advised that you go directly to a hospital emergency room. These facilities are equipped with the necessary equipment and personnel to provide immediate life-saving medical assistance if needed.
If you are not in an emergency but still require prompt medical attention, visiting an urgent care center is a great option instead of waiting for an appointment with your primary care physician or visiting a hospital emergency room.
Urgent care centers have shorter wait times than hospitals, and many offer evening and weekend hours. They often accept walk-in patients, and some also accept most major insurance plans, so check with your provider before visiting your nearest urgent care center.
By understanding when is the best time to go to an urgent care center, you can ensure that you get the best care for your condition in the most timely manner. When in doubt, it’s best to consult with a medical professional or call 911 if you have any life-threatening emergency.
About American Family Care
American Family Care in Maryland is a leading provider of affordable and convenient urgent care services. Our mission is to provide the best healthcare possible in a kind and caring environment while respecting the rights of all patients, in an economical manner, at times and locations convenient to the patient. Are you in need of urgent care? Head over to AFC to receive treatment today.
*Please be advised that only some locations offer these services. Please get in touch with us before coming for a walk-in visit.
