When faced with a medical concern or injury that requires immediate attention but is not severe enough to warrant a visit to the emergency room, urgent care centers provide a convenient and accessible option.
However, there may be instances when the expertise of a specialist is necessary for further evaluation and treatment, even after your trip to urgent care.
In this blog post, we will explore the topic of urgent care referrals, addressing common questions such as “Can urgent care refer you to a specialist?” and discuss the types of specialists that may be considered before your discharge with one of our urgent care medical professionals.
Continue reading to learn more.
Can Urgent Care Give Referrals?
The short answer is yes.
While one of the primary functions of urgent care centers is to provide immediate medical care for non-life-threatening conditions, specialist referrals are possible.
It is essential to understand that Getwell Urgent Care and other urgent care centers are equipped to handle various illnesses and injuries, including minor fractures, infections, cuts, and more. However, urgent care centers are not intended to provide specialized care for complex or chronic conditions.
In general, urgent care facilities do have the ability to provide referrals for patients who require specialized attention.
Each urgent care center’s specific policies and capabilities may vary, so it is essential to inquire directly with the facility.
Referrals to Specialists
When seeking a referral, providing detailed information about your condition and symptoms is crucial to help the urgent care provider make an informed decision. Here we detail whether urgent care can provide referrals to specific specialty types. Continue reading to learn more below.
Can Urgent Care Refer You to a Neurologist?
If you require specialized care for neurological concerns, such as migraines, seizures, or neuropathy, you may wonder if urgent care can refer you to a neurologist.
While it ultimately depends on the capabilities of the specific urgent care center, they may be able to provide a referral to a neurologist for further evaluation and treatment.
Can Urgent Care Refer You for an MRI?
Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) is a diagnostic tool commonly used to visualize internal structures and detect various medical conditions. While urgent care centers typically do not have MRI capabilities on-site, they can refer you to a radiology center, hospital, or specialist for an MRI if it is deemed necessary after evaluation.
Can Urgent Care Refer to Physical Therapy?
Urgent care centers often have resources to address acute musculoskeletal injuries, such as sprains, strains, and minor fractures.
However, for ongoing rehabilitation or more specialized physical therapy needs, they can refer you to a physical therapist who can create a tailored treatment plan for your condition.
Can Urgent Care Refer You to a Dermatologist?
Urgent care centers can help treat minor skin conditions like rashes, insect bites, or minor burns.
However, if you have a more complex or chronic skin condition that requires specialized care, urgent care can refer you to a dermatologist who can provide comprehensive evaluation and treatment.
Can Urgent Care Refer You to a Psychiatrist?
Yes, urgent care centers can refer you to a psychiatrist for mental health concerns.
However, it’s important to note that urgent care is typically focused on acute, short-term care rather than ongoing psychiatric treatment.
If you require long-term mental health care, it’s best to consult with your primary care physician, who better understands your mental health history and can refer you to a psychiatrist or mental health specialist.
Timely Specialist Referrals at Getwell Urgent Care
While urgent care centers are valuable for immediate medical needs, they may not provide the specialized care required for complex or chronic conditions.
However, you shouldn’t avoid visiting your local urgent care facility for needed medical help.
Urgent care centers, including Getwell Urgent Care, provide referrals to specialists based on the evaluation of your condition.
If you or a loved one need healthcare services, we are here for you. We are open 7 days a week with no referral or appointment needed. Walk in to get the personalized treatment you need sooner.