An emergency is an accident or sudden illness that a person with an average knowledge of medical science believes needs to be treated immediately to prevent loss of life, serious medical complications or permanent disability.

In an emergency situation, seek medical care right away—go to the emergency department or call 911.

Examples of emergencies include:

• Uncontrolled bleeding
• Seizure or loss of consciousness
• Chest pain or squeezing sensation in the chest
• Shortness of breath
• Suspected overdoses or poisoning
• Sudden paralysis or slurred speech
• Broken bones
• Severe pain
• Active labor

Urgent care is for non-life-threatening conditions and situations. In urgent situations, your primary care physician will direct you to the most appropriate place for care—a doctor’s office, Walk-In Urgent Care Center, or the Concord Hospital Emergency Department.

Examples of conditions usually considered urgent include:

• Minor cuts
• Burns
• Ear aches
• Minor pain