ER or Urgent Care?
Health Education

Is it an Emergency?       
Most illnesses and conditions can wait until you’re able to see a doctor or visit an Urgent Care facility. But, some symptoms need emergency attention and require immediate action.  

According to the American College of Emergency Physicians, the following are warning signs of a medical emergency: 
 
• Fainting or loss of consciousness
• Difficulty breathing, shortness of breath or choking
• Continuous bleeding
• Coughing up or vomiting blood
• Suicidal or homicidal feelings
• Severe or persistent vomiting
• Chest pain
• Upper abdominal pain or pressure
• Change in mental status (unusual behavior, confusion)
• Head or spine injury
• Sudden, severe pain anywhere in the body
• Sudden dizziness, weakness or change in vision
• Ingestion of a poisonous substance
• Sudden injury like vehicle accidents, burns, smoke inhalation, near drowning, deep wounds etc.   
 
If you experience any of the symptoms listed above, call 911 or go to the nearest Emergency Room. If your illness is not a medical emergency, contact your PCP.  
 
In addition, the AFMC Call Center is available, Monday - Friday, 8 am - 5 pm at 602-252-4042 (local) or 800-624-4277 (toll-free), to help you locate the most cost-effective healthcare provider for your benefit plan.  
 
After hours, visit the AFMC Web site (www.azfmc.com) to access the most current provider and facility listings.