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Where Should I Go for Care? Know Your Healthcare Options Before You Need Them

July 21, 2026

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Whether you need routine care, same-day treatment or emergency services, knowing your options can help you get the right care at the right time. St. Elizabeth Healthcare and St. Elizabeth Physicians offer resources to support every step of your care journey.

Key Takeaways

Call Nurse Now if you are unsure where to begin.
Use Video Visits on Demand for minor symptoms.
See primary care for ongoing needs.
Choose urgent care for non-emergencies.
Use the emergency department for life-threatening conditions.

Get Quick Care From Home

If you’re dealing with a minor illness such as:

Sore throat
Allergies
Respiratory symptoms

Video Visits on Demand may be the most convenient option. You can connect with a provider from the comfort of your home using your phone, tablet or computer.

Stay Healthy With Primary Care

Your primary care provider is your partner in long-term health. They know your medical history and can help with:

Preventive care needs.
Chronic condition management.
Ongoing health concerns.

Need a provider? Find a primary care provider near you.

Urgent Care for Same-Day Illnesses and Injuries

Urgent care is designed for conditions that need prompt attention but aren’t life-threatening. Common reasons to visit urgent care include:

Minor injuries.
Animal bites.
Mild allergic reactions.
Illnesses that can’t wait for a routine appointment.

Before you go, you can schedule an urgent care visit or view current urgent care wait times.

Know When It’s an Emergency

The emergency department is the right choice for life-threatening conditions such as:

Chest pain.
Stroke symptoms.
Uncontrolled bleeding.
Serious injuries.

If you think you may be experiencing a medical emergency, call 911 immediately. You can also view emergency department locations and wait times before heading to the hospital.

Not Sure Where to Start?

If you’re unsure which level of care is right for your situation, start with the free Nurse Now helpline. Registered nurses are available 24/7 to answer questions and help guide you to the most appropriate care option.

Call (888) 478-3669 to speak with a nurse.

Why Choosing the Right Care Matters

Getting care in the right setting can help you:

Receive treatment sooner.
Avoid unnecessary wait times.
Lower out-of-pocket costs.
Access care when your regular doctor’s office is closed.

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I know where to go for care?

If your symptoms are severe or life-threatening, go to the emergency department or call 911. For non-emergency concerns, consider whether a video visit, primary care appointment or urgent care visit best fits your needs. If you’re unsure, call Nurse Now at (888) 478-3669.

When should I choose urgent care instead of the emergency department?

Urgent care is appropriate for illnesses and injuries that need same-day attention but aren’t life-threatening. Serious conditions such as chest pain, stroke symptoms and severe injuries should be treated in the emergency department. Primary care provider, Barry Wendt, MD breaks down when to go to the emergency room versus urgent care in this explainer video.

What is the difference between urgent care and primary care?

Primary care providers help with long-term health needs, checkups and managing ongoing conditions. Urgent care is for quick treatment when you are sick or hurt and cannot wait for an appointment.

What is the fastest way to get care for minor symptoms?

Video Visits on Demand are often the fastest option. You can connect with a provider from home using your phone or computer, often within minutes.

Can I check wait times before I arrive?

Yes. St. Elizabeth offers online wait times for both urgent care centers and emergency departments so you can view current wait times and better plan your visit.

Is care available after hours?

Yes. Emergency departments are open 24/7, and virtual care, urgent care and Nurse Now can help when your primary care office is closed.

Do I need to be a current patient of St. Elizabeth to schedule an appointment?

No. You do not need to be a current patient of St. Elizabeth to access any of these options.

Accepting New Patients

Barry Wendt, MD

Internal Medicine

Clinical Focuses: Primary Care, EKG Services, Virtual Health

4.9 out of 5

Schedule Online

(859) 341-0288

Video visits limited to existing patients. Login to MyChart to schedule or call.

St. Elizabeth Physicians

Primary Care - Crestview Hills Internal Medicine

334 Thomas More Parkway, Crestview Hills, KY 41017-3464

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