Can You Go to Urgent Care for Work-Related Injuries?
Workplace injuries happen — even in low-risk environments. Whether it’s a slip in the hallway or a cut on the job site, it’s important to get evaluated promptly. But many Rhode Island employees ask the same question:
Can you go to urgent care for a work-related injury?
Yes — in many non-emergency situations, urgent care is the most efficient and cost-effective place to go. At Lincoln Urgent Care, we see a wide range of work-related injuries and help employees navigate the documentation and recovery process.
This guide explains when urgent care is appropriate, how it works, and what to bring — all without offering medical or legal advice.
When Is Urgent Care the Right Choice?
Urgent care is a great option for non-life-threatening workplace injuries that require same-day attention. Common examples include:
1. Minor cuts, scrapes, or lacerations
2. Sprains or muscle strains
3. Back pain or joint soreness
4. Bruises or swelling
5. Eye irritation or foreign body removal
If your injury is severe, involves head trauma, heavy bleeding, or difficulty breathing, you should go directly to the emergency room.
What to Expect at Your Visit
When you arrive at urgent care for a work-related injury, you’ll typically:
1. Check in and let the front desk know it’s a work-related issue
2. Provide any necessary insurance or employer paperwork
3. See one of our experienced providers for evaluation
4. Receive basic care, referrals, or further testing if needed
5. Leave with any required documentation for your employer or workers’ comp provider
To speed things up, you can fill out your patient forms in advance.
Do You Need a Referral or Authorization?
Depending on your employer’s policies or your workers’ compensation carrier, you may be required to:
1. Visit a specific clinic
2. Bring an authorization form
3. Have a referral from a supervisor or HR department
If you’re not sure, check in with your employer before your visit or call Lincoln Urgent Care to ask what documentation we accept.
Return-to-Work Forms and Documentation
One of the most important parts of handling a workplace injury is making sure the proper return-to-work forms are completed. After your visit, our team can provide:
1. A summary of your visit
2. Work status reports or light duty notes
3. Follow-up recommendations or referrals (if needed)
This information is especially helpful for employers, HR departments, and insurance companies managing claims.
Additional Services for Employers
We also provide occupational medicine services for businesses and organizations, including:
1. Pre-employment physicals
2. DOT physicals (if applicable)
3. Drug and alcohol screening
4. On-the-job injury evaluations
If you’re an employer in need of regular occupational care, contact us to learn more about partnership options.
Why Choose Lincoln Urgent Care?
At Lincoln Urgent Care, we help workers and employers handle injuries quickly and professionally. Our team provides:
1. Prompt walk-in care
2. On-site diagnostic imaging for injuries
3. Experienced, licensed providers
4. Employer-friendly documentation
5. Convenient location and hours
Read what local patients have to say in our reviews, or browse our FAQs for more info.
Need to be seen today for a workplace injury?
Contact Lincoln Urgent Care or walk in — no appointment necessary.
Disclaimer: This blog is for informational purposes only and does not constitute legal or medical advice. For any personal injury, workplace policy, or workers’ compensation questions, consult with your healthcare provider or legal representative.