Urgent care centers provide essential medical services for COVID-19 patients who need immediate attention but do not require emergency room care.
Many patients with COVID-19 can recover at home with rest and supportive care. However, certain symptoms require professional medical evaluation and treatment that urgent care centers are well-equipped to provide.
In this article, we will discuss the following:
- Specific symptoms that warrant care
- What to expect when you visit an urgent care for treatment
- The enhanced safety protocols at urgent care centers to protect patients
- Frequently asked questions about urgent care and COVID
When Should You Visit Urgent Care for COVID?
Urgent care centers serve as an excellent middle ground for patients who need professional medical attention but do not have life-threatening emergencies.
Symptoms That Require Urgent Care
Several COVID-19 symptoms warrant immediate medical evaluation at an urgent care facility, such as:
- Persistent high fever above 101.3°F that does not respond to fever-reducing medications
- Difficulty breathing or shortness of breath during normal activities
- Chest pain or pressure that worsens over time
- Severe dehydration from vomiting or diarrhea
- Worsening cough with blood or thick, discolored mucus
High-Risk Patients Should Seek Care Earlier
Certain individuals should consider urgent care visits sooner rather than later. Adults over 65 years old face increased risks for severe COVID-19 complications.
People with underlying health conditions such as diabetes, heart disease, or chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) can also benefit from earlier medical intervention.
What to Expect During Your COVID Urgent Care Visit
Understanding what to expect can help reduce anxiety about your visit and ensure you receive the best possible treatment.
Pre-Visit Screening Process
Most urgent care facilities now conduct telephone screenings before your arrival. During this call, healthcare staff will ask about your symptoms, recent travel history, and potential COVID-19 exposure. This information helps the medical team prepare for your visit and implement appropriate safety measures.
You may be asked to wait in your car or a designated area separate from other patients. Some facilities offer curbside check-in to minimize contact with potentially infected surfaces.
Testing and Diagnostic Services
Most urgent care centers offer both rapid antigen tests and PCR tests for COVID-19 diagnosis. Rapid tests provide results within 15-30 minutes, while PCR tests are more accurate but may take 24-48 hours for results.
Healthcare providers may also order additional tests such as chest X-rays if you experience respiratory symptoms. Blood work can help assess your overall health status and identify potential complications.
Treatment Options Available
Urgent care physicians can prescribe several treatments for COVID-19 symptoms. Antiviral medications such as Paxlovid (nirmatrelvir-ritonavir) may be recommended for high-risk patients if started within five days of symptom onset. Monoclonal antibody treatments might be considered for certain patients based on their risk factors and symptom severity.
Supportive care recommendations typically include rest, increased fluid intake, and over-the-counter medications for symptom management. Your healthcare provider will discuss specific medications and dosages appropriate for your situation.
How Urgent Care Centers Keep You Safe
Patient safety remains the top priority for urgent care facilities.
Enhanced Cleaning and Disinfection
All urgent care centers follow strict cleaning protocols between patient visits. High-touch surfaces such as door handles, examination tables, and medical equipment receive thorough disinfection using EPA-approved cleaners.
Air filtration systems are upgraded to remove airborne particles and improve indoor air quality.
Personal Protective Equipment Requirements
Healthcare staff wear appropriate personal protective equipment (PPE) including N95 masks, face shields, gloves, and gowns when treating suspected or confirmed COVID-19 patients.
Patients are required to wear masks throughout their visit and may be provided with masks if needed.
Physical Distancing Measures
Waiting areas are configured to maintain distance between patients. Some facilities have reduced capacity to ensure adequate spacing. Appointment scheduling is adjusted to minimize crowding and reduce wait times.
Frequently Asked Questions About COVID and Urgent Care
The following are the most frequently asked questions about urgent care and COVID.
How Long Should I Wait Before Seeking Care?
Most COVID-19 symptoms develop within 2-14 days of exposure. If you experience concerning symptoms such as difficulty breathing or persistent high fever, seek care promptly rather than waiting for symptoms to worsen.
Will Insurance Cover My COVID Urgent Care Visit?
Most insurance plans cover medically necessary urgent care visits for COVID-19 symptoms. Contact your insurance provider to understand your specific coverage and any potential out-of-pocket costs.
Can Urgent Care Provide COVID Sick Notes?
Yes, urgent care physicians can provide documentation for work or school absences related to COVID-19. Bring identification and any required forms from your employer or educational institution.
Urgent Care Treatment for COVID-19 in King, NC
If you are experiencing COVID-19 symptoms that require medical attention, do not hesitate to seek appropriate care. Urgent care centers are prepared to provide safe, effective treatment for COVID-19 patients.
For comprehensive urgent care services in a safe, caring environment, contact Cardinal Urgent Care. Our experienced medical team is ready to help you navigate your COVID-19 symptoms with personalized treatment plans and compassionate care.
For more information, call our team at (336) 983-9111 today.
