We assess and treat all injuries and illness that could be life-threatening or result in serious complications if not addressed quickly. Some of these potentially life-threatening conditions include:

• Bleeding that doesn’t stop
• Changes in vision
• Confusion or changes in mental status
• Coughing or vomiting blood
• Difficulty breathing or shortness of breath
• Difficulty speaking
• Fainting, sudden dizziness or weakness
• Heart attack or severe chest pain
• Loss of consciousness
• Medically necessary detoxification
• Severe or persistent vomiting or diarrhea
• Severe or unusual abdominal pain
• Stroke, sudden paralysis or slurred speech
• Sudden or severe pain
• Suicidal feelings

If you have these symptoms, call 911 immediately or get to the nearest emergency department.

When you arrive at the emergency department, we will evaluate you to determine the severity of your condition. It’s important to describe your symptoms as clearly and specifically as you can.  Our goal is to see and treat everyone quickly, but please understand we treat the most severely ill or injured people first, no matter their order of arrival. 

It’s common to have lab tests and imaging procedures during your visit to the emergency department. These tests help your doctor make a diagnosis and determine how best to treat you. If the doctor decides to admit you to the hospital, we’ll move you to a room as soon as we can. If your situation doesn’t require you to be admitted to the hospital, we’ll give you instructions for any necessary home or follow-up care.

We have interpreter services available if English is not your native language. We also have a team of case managers and social workers to help make sure your needs are met.   

Your medical history and other medical information is helpful for doctors to have any time they see you, including in an emergency. It’s helpful to bring the following with you to an emergency department visit if you are able:

• A list of allergies to medications and food
• A list of prescription and over-the-counter medications you take, including their dose and how often you take them
• Immunization records
• Medical and surgical history

Providence offers several options for receiving medical care if you have an urgent medical concern that isn’t a true emergency. Choosing the most appropriate care site helps you get the right treatment as quickly as possible at the least cost to you.  

To see locations of our clinics and help you select the care that’s best for you, please download our guide.

Primary care

It’s important to establish a primary care doctor whenever possible. The better a doctor gets to know you and your medical history, the easier it will be for you to get the exact care you need.  

ExpressCare Clinic

If your primary care doctor is not available, our ExpressCare Clinic offers same-day appointments and online scheduling.  

ExpressCare Virtual

ExpressCare Virtual allows you to get immediate care for common health conditions via your mobile device or computer. Providers are available daily 9 a.m. - 1 p.m. Schedule now.  

Walk-in clinic

Our walk-in clinic offers visits with a health care provider without an appointment. Find a location today.