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Navigating Our Health: Top 5 Reasons to go to Walk-In Care

As a Nurse Navigator, one of the questions I often receive is how does someone know when they should go to a Walk-In Care or if their symptoms warrant a trip to the emergency room. Here are my top five reasons to utilize Beebe Walk-In Care instead of heading to the Emergency Department.

  1. You are sick and your doctor’s office is closed. The Beebe Walk-in clinics are open 9 a.m. to 7 p.m. every day! There are locations in Rehoboth, Georgetown, Millsboro, and Millville. The extended hours of the walk-ins allow for you to be seen even when your doctor is closed. They are not meant to replace your primary care physician, but allow you to seek medical care after hours without going to the emergency room.
  2. Your illness or injury is NOT an emergency or life threatening. Walk-in clinics are the perfect place to go if you have a minor illness or injury. This also helps free up our emergency rooms to take care of patients who truly need emergency care, which cuts down on wait times.
  3. Is it broken or just a bad sprain? If you have an acute injury and are concerned you may have broken a bone, the Walk-in is a great place to be evaluated. All of our Walk-in facilities have the capability to perform X-rays for acute orthopaedic injuries. If the injury requires more extensive testing, such as MRI or CT, you will need to follow-up with your physician or orthopaedic specialist.
  4. You have a cut and think you might need sutures. All of the Walk-in facilities perform suturing on minor lacerations. More extensive injuries may require a visit to the Emergency Department.
  5. You think you may have an infection. The Walk-in clinics can test and treat for certain infections such as urinary tract infections, strep throat, ear infections, upper respiratory infections, sexually transmitted infections, and skin infections. If the infection is life threatening or IV medications are required, you will need to go to the hospital.

The following problems are reasons to call 911 and seek emergency care…

  • Chest pain or pressure
  • Shortness of breath or problems breathing
  • Severe bleeding
  • Severe Abdominal pain
  • Traumatic Head injury
  • Severe Eye injuries
  • Signs of a stroke: worst headache or your life, numbness or weakness in extremities, slurred speech, or confusion

Remember, the Walk-in clinics are great for minor illnesses and injuries, but emergencies should be treated in the Emergency Department.

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Carrie Snyder

Carrie Snyder, MSN, APRN, FNP-BC, is the Women's Health Nurse Navigator. Carrie serves as a liaison between Beebe and the community to help community members navigate Beebe’s services.