Did you know that more than half of all urgent care centers in the United States have been in operation for more than five years? Immediate care facilities first opened in the U.S. in the 1970s, and since that time, they have become viable alternatives to emergency room care. There are several benefits of urgent care facilities, which makes them an effective way to prevent ER crowding.

1. Variety of treatment. Immediate care centers are equipped to treat a wide variety of non-life-threatening conditions. Not only can they treat lacerations, burns, concussions, and upper respiratory illnesses, but they can also perform x-rays, blood work, and physical exams, as well. As a result, these facilities are a helpful way to obtain medical care for minor conditions.

2. Cost. Immediate care is often less expensive than the emergency room. In fact, the typical trip to urgent care costs about $150, while the average visit to the emergency room costs $1,500. Additionally, most urgent medical care centers accept health insurance, which can help make your visit even more affordable.

3. Short wait times. Many patients experience short wait times because immediate care centers operate on a walk-in basis. In fact, 57% of patients wait 15 minutes or less to be seen, and 80% of all visits are completed in 60 minutes or less. This makes urgent care a quick and convenient alternative to the emergency room.

Immediate care facilities are beneficial in several ways. Not only do they offer a variety of treatment, but they are also affordable and convenient, as well. As a result, urgent care facilities have become viable alternatives to the emergency room, therefore they can be used to help prevent ER crowding. Read more articles like this.