Urgent Care
Heale Medical Primary Care
Urgent Care: Overview
Urgent care centers provide immediate medical attention for non-life-threatening conditions that require prompt treatment but are not severe enough to warrant a visit to the emergency room (ER). They serve as a bridge between primary care and emergency care, offering convenience and accessibility.
When to Visit Urgent Care
Urgent care is ideal for conditions such as:
- Minor Illnesses
- Fever, colds, flu, sore throat, ear infections.
- Mild to moderate asthma attacks.
- Minor Injuries
- Cuts needing stitches, minor burns, sprains, or fractures.
- Diagnostic Tests
- X-rays, blood work, and urine tests for non-emergency concerns.
- Other Services
- Vaccinations, physical exams, and treatment for allergic reactions or rashes.
Benefits of Urgent Care
- Convenience
- No appointment needed; walk-in service is common.
- Extended hours, including evenings and weekends.
- Cost-Effectiveness
- Lower cost compared to emergency rooms for non-life-threatening issues.
- Shorter Wait Times
- Typically faster than the ER for minor health concerns.
- Comprehensive Services
- On-site labs, X-rays, and minor procedures reduce the need for multiple visits.
- Accessibility
- Located in many neighborhoods, making care readily available.
Limitations of Urgent Care
- Not for Severe Cases
- Conditions like chest pain, severe bleeding, difficulty breathing, or stroke symptoms require emergency room care.
- Limited Specialization
- Urgent care providers may not offer specialized treatments or surgeries.
- Variable Quality
- The quality of care can differ between centers, depending on staffing and resources.
- No Continuity of Care
- Unlike primary care providers, urgent care centers may lack access to a patient’s full medical history.
- Insurance Coverage
- Some centers may not accept all insurance plans, leading to unexpected costs.
Urgent Care vs. Emergency Room
| Aspect | Urgent Care | Emergency Room |
|---|---|---|
| Conditions Treated | Minor illnesses and injuries | Life-threatening and severe conditions |
| Cost | Lower | Higher |
| Wait Time | Shorter | Longer (triage-based priority) |
| Hours | Extended hours, often no 24/7 service | Open 24/7 |
| Facilities | Basic diagnostic tools | Advanced medical equipment and specialists |
Choosing an Urgent Care Center
- Location and Accessibility: Choose a center nearby for quicker access.
- Insurance Coverage: Confirm if your insurance is accepted.
- Services Offered: Check for specific services like X-rays or vaccinations.
- Reputation: Look for online reviews or recommendations to ensure quality care.
Conclusion
Urgent care centers provide a vital service for immediate but non-emergency medical needs. They offer a cost-effective, convenient alternative to emergency rooms for minor health issues. While not a substitute for primary care or emergency services, they play an essential role in the healthcare system, bridging gaps in care accessibility and timeliness.
Heale Medical Primary Care Doctors
DR. SARAH PARK, M.D.
Dr. Park completed the Bachelor of Science / Doctor of Medicine program at Northeastern Ohio Medical University. She completed an internal medicine residency at Case Western Metro Health in Cleveland, Ohio, and is Internal Medicine board-certified physician. Dr. Park has 10 years of experience and prior to starting at Heale Medical, she worked in academic medicine as well as hospitalist work. Her focuses include preventative care and women’s health. In her spare time, she enjoys traveling, exercise and spending time with her husband and two children. She also likes to volunteer at church and with various global health organizations.
DR. STEPHANIE NG, D.O.
Dr. Stephanie Ng completed her undergraduate studies at University of New England in Maine after serving as a medic in the US Army for four years. She graduated with a degree in Medical Biology and began working in the biotech/pharmaceutical field as a research assistant. She attended the University of New England College of Osteopathic Medicine and completed her Internal Medicine Residency program with the US Army in El Paso, TX. Upon completion of her program, she was assigned to the largest American hospital outside of the US in Germany.
During her time there, she worked as a primary care physician until she was deployed to Afghanistan as a Battalion Surgeon with the 2nd Cavalry Infantry unit. With the help of her medics and PA, she ran a sick call clinic for her soldiers, attended to minor traumas, provided medical training/education to the combat medics as well as organized a Flu vaccination clinic and Osteopathic Manipulation Treatment Day alongside her Physical Therapist. Throughout her career she had worked in various positions to include hospitalist, primary care and urgent care.
Her medical interests include preventive healthcare, integrative medicine, OMT and aesthetics. Dr. Ng is fluent in Spanish as well.
In her spare time she enjoys spending time with her children, traveling, watching movies, dancing and having adventures where ever life takes her!
JOSHUA MONTGOMERY, CERTIFIED PHYSICAN ASSISTANT (PA)
Joshua Montgomery is certified physician assistant (PA)and graduate of Shenandoah University’s PA program. He most recently completed his Doctorate of Medical Science degree from Shenandoah University. Joshua also holds a Master of Public Health degree from Virginia Commonwealth University School of Medicine and worked many years in public health before becoming a PA.
His professional interest lies in preventative medicine, particularly biopsychosocial connection for chronic disease prevention and management, as well interest in Men’s health.
In addition, Joshua serves on the Board of Directors for the Virginia Association of Minority PAs as well as the nccPA Health Foundation.
In his free time, Joshua enjoys sports especially basketball and football. He also enjoys live music events, food festivals, and exploring nice outdoor parks.
Heale Medical Primary Care
8300 Boone Boulevard
Suite 150
Vienna, VA 22182
