It is not uncommon for many Americans to report they are unable to see their primary care doctors when they need them most because there are no available appointments.
This issue has been proliferating since many years leading to the emergence and consequent popularity of Urgent Care Centers (UCCs).
UCCs are essentially walk-in clinics that provide effective convenient and affordable care.
Unlike full-fledged hospitals, urgent care centers are not equipped to deal with serious events like strokes, heart attacks, or severe accidents. But these clinics are well-equipped to deal with non-life-threatening injuries and illnesses.
UCCs are walk-ins with no appointment needed. They are open on weekends and after hours.
Another reason why urgent care centers have become popular is they are substantially cheaper than other places of healthcare.
You or any of your loved ones can suffer a health issue or an injury without warning. A getaway at a sea beach or even by being careless with BBQ can get one into trouble. A burn, if minor in nature, can be taken care of by first aid provided you do it right.
But if it becomes serious will require quick medical attention.
Evaluate the following.
- How big is the burn? Certain locations of the body are more disposed to complications and are difficult to care for. Arlington urgent care doctors say complicated burns must be seen by a medical professional straightaway.
- How deep is the burn? Burns are classified by their depth of penetration into the tissue. The classification is categorized from First-degree burns to Fourth-degree burns. Higher the number the more serious the burn.
- Who suffered the burn? This is a very important aspect. Older patients, children, diabetics and those with any chronic ailments experience prolonged healing. These patients must be seen early on.
Keep in mind that any electrical burn must be promptly seen by a medical provider. At first it may appear the burn is minor in nature but it can go deep into the tissue of the skin. The damage to the skin may not surface for several hours, which is why it is of utmost importance to visit an urgent care clinic straightaway.
But here is an important point to note.
If you or any of your loved ones suffer third or fourth-degree burns, call 911 or rush to a hospital straightaway. A third or fourth-degree burns means the injury has occurred to the outer layer of the skin along with the dermis, bones, muscles and tendons. Typically, such burns are painful but also can cause little pain if the affected nerves have been destroyed.
Accidents happen, and sadly they seem to happen at odd times. “Even during these Covid-19 pandemic times, it is more important than ever to get treated for non-Covid injuries as quickly and safely as possible”, says a physician at urgent health care near Arlington VA.
If the burn is larger than three inches and is located in a sensitive area like the groin, major joint, face, or buttocks, you must seek care at the earliest.
