When you're sick or hurt, the ER can feel like the only choice. For many problems, it isn't. Using urgent care for non-emergencies saves you time and money. It also keeps ER beds free for people who need them most.

Why urgent care helps

• Evening and weekend hours. Wasilla Urgent Care is open Mon to Fri 8 am to 8 pm, and Sat and Sun 10 am to 6 pm.

• No appointment needed. Walk in, or call ahead.

• Usually a shorter wait than the ER for minor problems.

• Usually a lower cost than an ER visit for the same minor problem.

• X-rays and lab work to help find what's wrong.

What urgent care is good for

Colds, flu, sore throats, ear infections, pink eye, minor cuts, sprains, rashes and minor burns.

What urgent care is not for

Urgent care can't handle life-threatening problems. Go to the ER or call 911 for:

• Chest pain or pressure

• Trouble breathing

• Signs of stroke, like face drooping, arm weakness or trouble speaking

• Heavy bleeding that won't stop

• A serious head injury or loss of consciousness

• Severe pain or a badly broken bone

If you're not sure, call us. Our team can help you decide where to go.

Don't forget your family doctor

A regular primary care provider helps catch problems before they turn urgent. Capstone has family medicine clinics in Wasilla, Palmer and Eagle River.

Find us

Wasilla Family Medicine, 3122 E Meridian Park Loop, Wasilla. 907-357-9590

Wasilla Urgent Care, 3765 E Blue Lupine Dr, Wasilla. 907-357-9560. Open Mon to Fri 8 am to 8 pm, Sat and Sun 10 am to 6 pm.

Palmer, 12039 E Maplesprings Way Ste A, Palmer. 907-745-9088

Eagle River Family Medicine, 17025 Snowmobile Ln, Eagle River. 907-694-9553

This article is general health information. It is not medical advice. If you think you have an emergency, call 911.