Urgent Care vs. Emergency Department
Our Emergency Locations
HealthAlliance-Clinton Hospital - Leominster Campus Emergency Department
60 Hospital Road ED,
Leominster, 01453 MA
UMass Memorial Medical Center - University Campus Emergency Department
55 Lake Avenue North ED,
Worcester, 01655 MA
Harrington Hospital - Webster Campus Emergency Department
340 Thompson Road ED,
Webster, 01570 MA
HealthAlliance-Clinton Hospital - Clinton Campus Emergency Department
201 Highland Street ED,
Clinton, 01510 MA
Marlborough Hospital - Emergency Department
157 Union Street ED,
Marlborough, 01752 MA
UMass Memorial Medical Center - Memorial Campus Emergency Department
119 Belmont Street ED,
Worcester, 01605 MA
When to Go to the Emergency Department
Medical conditions that appear life-threatening or need immediate treatment require a higher level of service. Rapid assessments for these issues are available in our emergency department, where you also have access to teams of specialists and advanced therapies.
Conditions we evaluate and treat in the emergency department include:
- Broken bones (fractures)
- Chest pain
- Choking
- Difficulty breathing
- Fainting (syncope) or unconsciousness
- Heavy bleeding
- Inability to move or speak
- Poisoning or overdose
- Severe burns
- Stroke-like symptoms, such as sudden confusion or severe headache
Thoughts of harm to yourself or others
For some emergencies, it’s best to call 911 instead of driving yourself to the hospital. Emergency medical services (EMS) providers come to you and may immediately start communicating with the hospital about your needs. This approach helps our team prepare so you can start receiving services upon arrival.
Urgent Care vs. Emergency Department: What to Expect From UMass Memorial
Level I Trauma Center
UMass Memorial Medical Center is accredited by the American College of Surgeons as the only Level I trauma center in the region. This designation recognizes our commitment to the highest level of care for acute illness and traumatic injuries. You can count on us to treat any medical emergency in adults or children.
Exceptional Primary Care Services
If you’re not sure where to go, call your primary care provider. We are available during business hours to listen to your concerns and provide guidance. Whether it’s a chronic condition, such as asthma or diabetes, or acute illnesses, like the flu, we’re here to help. Clinics offer a limited number of same-day appointments so you can be seen quickly.
Convenient Urgent Care
Our multiple clinic locations make it easier to access urgent care services when you need them. Urgent care is a walk-in service, meaning appointments are optional. Doctors, nurse practitioners and medical assistants quickly diagnose urgent concerns and provide personalized treatment recommendations. Some locations have extended hours and allow you to save a spot online.
Get Care for Any Emergency or Urgent Medical Issue
If you or a loved one experiences a life-threatening issue, call 911 or go to the emergency department immediately. For mental health emergencies, call 988. For less serious issues, contact your primary care provider at 855-UMASS-MD during business hours. Services are also available in urgent care clinics, some of which are open evenings and weekends.