When you or a loved one suddenly falls sick or gets injured, it’s easy to panic and rush to the nearest hospital. But not every health concern needs a full emergency room visit, and not every condition should be treated at home either.
Understanding the difference between Urgent Care and the ER helps you save time, money, and stress, while making sure you get the right level of care quickly.
At MD Urgent Care Clinic, our mission is to provide fast, affordable, walk-in medical care for non-life-threatening illnesses and injuries across our Merrillville, Highland, and Hammond, Indiana locations. Here’s a clear guide to help you choose the right place when it matters most.
What Is Urgent Care?
Urgent Care is designed for non-emergency medical issues that still need prompt attention.
You don’t need an appointment — simply walk in and get treated faster than a hospital ER.
Visit MD Urgent Care for Conditions Like:
✔️ Fever, cold, cough, flu
✔️ Sore throat & strep infections
✔️ Sinus infections
✔️ Minor injuries (sprains, strains, bruises)
✔️ Cuts, scrapes, minor burns
✔️ Rashes & allergic reactions
✔️ Ear infections
✔️ Urinary tract infections (UTIs)
✔️ Dehydration or fatigue
✔️ Headaches & migraines
✔️ Nausea, vomiting, stomach pain
✔️ Work, sports, or school injuries
✔️ On-site lab tests (bloodwork, flu test, strep test, pregnancy test)
Why Choose MD Urgent Care?
- Walk-in Care — No Appointment Needed
- Affordable Pricing compared to ER
- Quick Service with minimal wait times
- On-site Labs & Testing for faster diagnoses
- Telehealth Services for convenient virtual visits
- Family-friendly care for adults & children
What Is the Emergency Room (ER)?
The ER is for life-threatening emergencies that require immediate, advanced medical intervention.
Go to the ER for:
⚠️ Chest pain or heart attack symptoms
⚠️ Severe difficulty breathing
⚠️ Uncontrolled bleeding
⚠️ Major burns
⚠️ Severe head injuries
⚠️ Stroke symptoms (face drooping, slurred speech)
⚠️ Loss of consciousness
⚠️ Serious accidents or trauma
⚠️ Severe abdominal pain
⚠️ Seizures
⚠️ Poisoning or drug overdose
These situations require specialized hospital equipment and emergency physicians.
Urgent Care vs ER: Quick Comparison Chart
| Condition | Urgent Care | ER |
|---|---|---|
| Mild fever | ✔️ | ❌ |
| Sprained ankle | ✔️ | ❌ |
| Strep throat | ✔️ | ❌ |
| Minor cuts | ✔️ | ❌ |
| Chest pain | ❌ | ✔️ |
| Difficulty breathing | ❌ | ✔️ |
| Stroke signs | ❌ | ✔️ |
| Major accident | ❌ | ✔️ |
Why Choosing the Right Place Matters
✔️ Saves You Time
ER wait times can be hours. MD Urgent Care provides fast, walk-in treatment.
✔️ Saves You Money
Urgent care bills are much lower than ER visits, even with insurance.
✔️ Better Care for the Situation
Emergency rooms focus on life-threatening emergencies.
Urgent care clinics focus on minor to moderate illnesses and injuries, efficiently.
When in Doubt — MD Urgent Care Is Here to Help
If you’re unsure which option is right, call your nearest MD Urgent Care Clinic location.
Our team will guide you immediately based on your symptoms.
We’re committed to making healthcare simple, fast, and accessible for families across Indiana.
MD Urgent Care — Your Health, Your Time.
