Urgent care for children
Many urgent care clinics treat children for fevers, ear pain, sore throats, cuts and minor injuries. Age limits differ by clinic, and very young babies are usually sent to a pediatric emergency department, so ask before you drive over.
Who can do it
A clinic that lists children as patients. Ask the youngest age they see, and whether a provider with pediatric experience is on site that day.
Who needs it
- Children with a fever, ear pain, sore throat or cough when the regular pediatrician cannot see them soon
- Minor cuts, sprains and rashes outside office hours
- Evenings and weekends when the pediatrician is closed
What to bring
- Insurance card and photo ID for the parent or guardian
- Immunization record if you have it
- A list of your child's medicines, allergies and recent fevers
- Any medicine you gave and what time you gave it
What to expect
- Questions about symptoms and how long they have lasted
- Temperature, weight and a focused exam
- Quick tests such as strep or flu when needed
- Clear next steps, and when to go to the ER instead
Cost
Often similar to an adult urgent care visit. Ask for the self-pay price if you do not have coverage.