Is Urgent Care Right for You? Here’s What It Can and Can’t Do
When you’re feeling sick or dealing with a minor injury, you don’t always have time to wait for your doctor — but you also don’t want to rush to the ER for something that isn’t life-threatening.
That’s where Lincoln Urgent Care comes in.
Urgent care centers are designed to treat a wide range of non-emergency medical concerns — quickly, affordably, and without the need for an appointment. Still, it’s important to understand what urgent care can and can’t do, so you can make the best decision for your health and your schedule.
What Urgent Care Can Do
Urgent care is ideal for everyday health concerns that need prompt attention but are not severe enough to require the emergency room. At Lincoln Urgent Care, our walk-in services include:
1. Minor Illnesses- We evaluate common symptoms like sore throats, coughs, fevers, and seasonal issues.
See our FAQ page for examples.
2. Minor Injuries- From sprains and small cuts to bumps and bruises, urgent care can help with many minor injuries.
On-site diagnostic radiology is available when needed.
3. COVID-19 and Flu Testing- Fast access to COVID-19 testing and flu evaluations — walk-in friendly.
4. Workplace Injuries & Exams- We provide occupational medicine services, including injury evaluations and pre-employment screenings.
5. Vaccines and Preventive Services- Seasonal flu shots and routine vaccines are available (based on supply).
Check with our team before visiting.
6. Walk-In Physicals- Sports, camp, or school physicals — no appointment required.
What Urgent Care Can’t Do
While urgent care covers a lot, it’s not a substitute for emergency care or long-term management. Here are a few things urgent care is not designed to handle:
1. Medical Emergencies- For symptoms like chest pain, difficulty breathing, severe bleeding, or major trauma — call 911 or go to the ER immediately.
2. Ongoing Chronic Care- Conditions that require continuous management (like diabetes, heart disease, or mental health treatment) should be managed by your primary care provider or specialist.
3. Advanced Diagnostic Procedures- Urgent care provides basic imaging and testing — but not advanced scans like CT or MRI, or specialist-level diagnostics.
4. Surgery or Emergency Procedures- If surgery is needed, urgent care will refer you to the appropriate facility or provider.
So, When Is Urgent Care Right for You?
If your condition:
1. Is not life-threatening
2. Can’t wait several days for a doctor’s appointment
3. Needs same-day attention (but not emergency-level care)
4. Involves common illnesses or minor injuries
… then urgent care is likely the best choice.
Why Choose Lincoln Urgent Care?
We’re here to help when life happens — and you need care fast. Our clinic offers:
1. Experienced providers
2. Walk-in convenience
3. Short wait times
4. Insurance-friendly billing
5. Patient forms available online
6. Trusted patient reviews
Learn more about us on our about page — or just stop in today.
Still unsure?
Give us a call or contact us online — our team is happy to help you figure out the next best step.
Disclaimer: This blog is for informational purposes only and does not provide medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always contact a licensed healthcare provider for personal medical questions.