Question 1

How much does an urgent care visit cost without insurance?

Accepted Answer

A basic urgent care sick visit costs $75 to $175 cash pay. Visits requiring X-rays, lab tests, or minor procedures will add to the total, typically bringing the all-in cost to $150 to $400. This is a fraction of the average ER visit cost of over $2,200 for similar conditions.

Question 2

What is the difference between urgent care and the emergency room?

Accepted Answer

Urgent care handles non-life-threatening conditions — infections, minor injuries, sprains, lacerations, and acute illness. The ER handles emergencies — chest pain, difficulty breathing, stroke symptoms, severe bleeding, and major trauma. If you are unsure, call ahead. Choosing urgent care appropriately can save $1,500 to $3,000 compared to an ER visit.

Question 3

How much does it cost to get stitches at urgent care?

Accepted Answer

Simple laceration repair (less than 5 cm) costs $150 to $350 at urgent care, including the visit fee. Complex lacerations cost $250 to $600. The same repair at an ER typically costs $1,000 to $3,000. Urgent care can handle most cuts that do not involve tendons, nerves, or facial cosmetic concerns.

Question 4

Can urgent care do X-rays?

Accepted Answer

Yes, most urgent care centers have on-site X-ray capability. X-rays cost $50 to $250 depending on the number of views and body part. Urgent care can diagnose simple fractures, evaluate chest conditions, and assess abdominal concerns. Complex imaging like CT and MRI requires referral to an imaging center.

Question 5

How much does a sports physical cost at urgent care?

Accepted Answer

A sports physical (pre-participation physical exam) costs $50 to $100 at urgent care. This includes a history review, physical examination, and clearance form completion. No appointment is usually needed, and most visits take 15 to 20 minutes.

Question 6

Does urgent care treat UTIs?

Accepted Answer

Yes, UTIs are one of the most common conditions treated at urgent care. A visit including urinalysis and prescription typically costs $100 to $200 cash pay. You can often be seen within minutes and leave with a prescription the same day, avoiding the cost and wait time of a primary care or ER visit.

Question 7

How long is the wait at urgent care?

Accepted Answer

Average urgent care wait times range from 15 to 45 minutes, compared to 2-4 hours at many ERs. Some OpenDoc urgent care providers show real-time wait estimates and allow you to check in online. Walk-in visits are standard, though some centers also accept scheduled appointments.

Question 8

Can urgent care prescribe antibiotics?

Accepted Answer

Yes, urgent care providers can diagnose infections and prescribe antibiotics for strep throat, UTIs, sinus infections, ear infections, skin infections, and other bacterial conditions. They can also prescribe antivirals for influenza if caught within 48 hours. All prescriptions can be sent electronically to your preferred pharmacy.

Urgent Care

Pricing methodology

Common services and estimated pricing