When was the last time you faced the decision of whether to visit an emergency room or an after hours urgent care? Unfortunately that decision comes all to often for some people. For some reason there are myths that surround urgent care clinics that have swayed opinions for decades. Here are a few truths to know about your local urgent care or medical walk in clinic:

1. Urgent Care Clinics Treat More Than Cold Symptoms – This is one of the common myths about urgent care facilities, but don’t believe it any more! Today, urgent care clinics across the nation are outfitted with the latest in medical technology and can perform procedures like x-rays, MRIs, Catscans, strep tests, etc. Don’t think that your local urgent care is just for passing out tissues and cough drops anymore – let them take care of all of your medical needs!

2. Urgent Care Clinics Are Typically Faster Than ERs – From 2003 through 2009, the average emergency room wait time in America increased from 46.5 minutes to 58.1 minutes, whereas 60% of all urgent care centers have a wait time of less than 15 minutes. What’s not to love about that? Don’t waste time filling out paperwork and waiting for nearly an hour at the ER when you can be in to see a doctor in no time at your local urgent care.

3. Urgent Care Clinics Have Great Availability – Less than 30% of primary care doctors offer after hours coverage, but you are likely to find several after hour urgent care clinics in your area. Now you won’t be stressed about taking your child to the doctor and missing work because more than likely you will be able to do it before or after your shift.

Whether you are looking for a new source or family health care or you are in just needing a routine physical for a new job, your local after hours urgent care facility can help. The next time you are in a jam and are choosing between the ER and a community health clinic or urgent care, you’ll know which one to choose.