Emergency Department
Emergency Department physicians, nurses, technicians and support staff provide around-the-clock coverage and emergent treatment. Our dedicated team is prepared to care for both minor and severe injuries and illnesses as quickly as possible.
Check-in online and wait from home
When you need expert ER care, register online and wait from the comfort of your home. ER online check-in is free and easy to use. Click the McLaren emergency department near you below:
McLaren Emergency Care Locations Near You
Emergency Room vs. Urgent Care
Emergency Room
An emergency is a serious symptom or medical condition that is caused by an illness or injury. Most emergency departments are open 24/7, as patients may arrive any time of the day or night. In deciding whether to seek treatment at an emergency department, consider the seriousness of the condition and symptoms. For serious injuries or medical conditions, you should go to an emergency room. The conditions that need care in an emergency department include, but are not limited to:
- Symptoms of a stroke, including sudden numbness in an extremity
- Symptoms of a heart attack, including chest pain and/or shortness of breath
- Seizures or loss of consciousness
- Severe injuries, such as fractures or head trauma
- Vomiting or coughing up blood
- Deep cuts or bleeding that won’t stop
- Severe burns
- Severe abdominal pain
Urgent Care
Urgent care centers are usually used to treat patients with medical conditions that require immediate attention, but are not serious enough to warrant a visit to an emergency room. Conditions that may be effectively treated at urgent care centers include:
- Sprains and strains
- Infections, including urinary tract or respiratory infections
- Minor cuts with controlled bleeding
- Colds, coughs and sore throat
- Flu symptoms and/or fever
- Skin rashes and minor injuries
Most urgent care centers have extended hours, including evenings and weekends, and offer walk-in appointments.
When in doubt, patients who feel their symptoms require immediate medical attention may choose to go to a hospital emergency department, where medical professionals can determine which level of care is required.