ER FAQs
Have questions about coming to the ER? Here you’ll find some of our most frequently asked questions.
When should I go to the emergency room?
If you’re experiencing a life-threatening condition and need immediate medical care, it’s time to go to the emergency room.
Symptoms that should raise a red flag include:
- Broken bones
- Chest pain and difficulty breathing
- Fever in an infant (under 3 months old)
- Heavy bleeding that can’t be controlled
- Issues with pregnancy
- Loss of consciousness
- Moderate to severe burns
- Poisoning
- Seizures and fainting
- Serious fractures
- Serious head, neck or back injuries
- Signs of a heart attack or stroke
- Sudden and severe pain
- Sudden worsening of a chronic condition (asthma, allergies, etc.)
What emergency room is closest to me?
We have 9 emergency rooms across central, south-central and northeast Pennsylvania. Each is open every day, around the clock, and offers plenty of free parking.
When should I call 911?
Call 911 immediately if you experience:
- Shortness of breath
- Symptoms of a stroke
- Symptoms of a heart attack
- A life- or limb-threatening injury
These conditions are extremely time-sensitive and require immediate care. If you need immediate attention or aren’t able to drive, call 911.
Can I walk in or do I need an appointment?
Our ERs are walk-in only, which means appointments can’t be made ahead of time. While we’ll do our best to have you seen as quickly as possible, those who are the sickest or most injured and require immediate care may be seen ahead of you.
If you need medical care that doesn’t require treatment at an Emergency Department, our walk-in Convenient Care clinics offer fast, after-hours care and are open 7 days a week. Learn more about Convenient Care locations.
What should I bring with me?
Just bring yourself — no need for anything else. However, if you do have the following items, it may help get you in and out faster:
- A list of your current medications
- Personal identification
- Your copay
- Your health insurance cards
- A list of medication allergies
- Any test results related to your condition
- Your regular doctor’s contact information
What age patients do you see?
We see patients of all ages, from infants to older adults. We’re open every day, around the clock, and provide medical care for those who are severely sick or injured. If you have a life-threatening illness or injury, call 911 or head to the emergency room.
If you aren’t in immediate danger but need help more quickly than you can get an appointment with your primary care doctor, consider visiting one of our 24 Convenient Care locations. You can even check wait times online and reserve your spot. Find urgent care locations.
Is my insurance accepted?
When you’re hurt or not feeling well, money should be your last concern. Our hospital emergency rooms accept most insurance plans and are always adding new ones. If you’re uninsured, we’ll work with you based on your financial situation.
Get more information about insurance accepted.
Are visitors allowed in the treatment area?
Yes, visitors are allowed at the discretion of our medical staff