If you have a health problem that needs attention but is not an emergency, you might be curious if an internal medicine specialists (or internists) can help you at urgent care. That is a great question, and many people are wondering the same thing. Below, our internists in Northwest Indiana are going to help you determine whether it’s better to visit an urgent care or an internal medicine specialist for your situation.
The role of internal medicine in urgent care
When you think of urgent care, you might picture a place to go when you have twisted your ankle, got a bad cut, or have a fever that has lasted more than 3 or 4 days. But sometimes, people have health issues that are more complicated, and that is where an internist can help.
If you are not already familiar, internal medicine is a specialty that focuses on the prevention, diagnosis, and treatment of adult diseases. This means that internists are good at figuring out complicated health problems that are not easy to diagnose.
Can an internist address your needs at urgent care?
You might be curious if an internist in Northwest Indiana can address your medical needs at an urgent care clinic? The answer is yes, but it really depends on the clinic and what you need help with.
At some urgent care centers, you will find different medical professionals on hand, including internists. These doctors treat a wide range of health problems, from simple ones like colds to more complicated issues. But if the internist finds something that needs specialized attention, they might refer you a specialist for a follow-up.
The good thing about seeing an internist at an urgent care clinic is that they can help with not only your immediate health problem, but also figure out what is really going on with your health. For example, if you are dealing with something like persistent chest pain, unexplained weight loss, or a complicated infection, an internist can give you the thorough care you need.
The benefits of visiting an internal medicine specialist
When you are not feeling well, it can make you feel better to know that a doctor who is highly trained in internal medicine is treating you. Qualified internists in Northwest Indiana — like our team at 219 Health Network — know a lot about adult health problems. We can determine what is wrong with your health, recommend the right treatment, and, if needed, coordinate further care with other doctors who specialize in certain areas.
This comprehensive approach is important. For example, if you come in with a high fever and body aches, the internist will not just treat the fever — they will also try to find out if there is an underlying condition causing your symptoms, like an infection or an autoimmune disease. This kind of thorough evaluation can help you get the right treatment faster and prevent complications down the road.
Should you visit an urgent care or an internist?
It can be confusing to know when to go to an urgent care clinic or when to see an internist in Northwest Indiana. Urgent care is best for times when you need quick attention, but it is not really a life-threatening emergency.
But if you have a more complicated health problem or multiple ongoing health issues, it might be worth finding a specialist in your area. Having an internal medicine specialist in Northwest Indiana by your side is especially valuable when you are managing a chronic disease, like diabetes or hypertension, as they can provide the continuity of care that is so important for these conditions.
Looking for an Internist in Northwest Indiana?
Are you ready to meet with an internist in Northwest Indiana and take the next step toward better health? If so, 219 Health Network is the clinic to visit. Our team of experienced and compassionate internists is here to provide you with the care you need. Contact us today at 833-219-0001 to learn how we can assist you.