This post is sponsored and written by HCA Midwest Health.
Sometimes it’s hard to know where to turn when someone in your family is sick or hurt.
Whether it’s a fever, a broken bone, or something more serious, knowing your options can help you act quickly and confidently.
Here is your mom friendly guide for deciding between a freestanding emergency room, a hospital ER or an urgent care clinic.
What is a Freestanding Emergency Room?
- What is it? A freestanding emergency room is an ER located away from a hospital
but connected to one. You can spot one by its name—look for mentions of a hospital or
health system. - Who do they treat? They treat kids and adults and are staffed by board-certified
emergency room physicians and nurses who are experienced in treating emergencies. - Why choose it? It’s open 24/7, staffed by board-certified doctors and nurses, and
equipped to handle serious emergencies like a hospital ER. HCA Midwest Health has
three free-standing ERs in the Kansas City community – Shawnee, Olathe and Brookside. - Here is what you should know about freestanding emergency rooms.
When to Visit the ER
Some situations are life-threatening and require emergency care. Head to a freestanding ER or hospital ER for:
- Suspected heart attack or stroke
- Trouble breathing
- Severe allergic reactions
- Broken bones, severe burns, or heavy bleeding
- High fever that won’t go down
- Uncontrolled vomiting, diarrhea, or dehydration
- Suspected poisoning or overdose
- We’ve put together 9 things to expect during a trip to the emergency room.
HCA Midwest Health freestanding ERs have shorter wait times, experienced staff, and a
seamless transfer process if hospital care is needed. They even offer pediatric expertise, so your little one is in great hands.
When to Visit Urgent Care Instead
For illnesses and injuries that aren’t emergencies but still need attention quickly, visit an urgent care clinic. Here’s when to go:
- Common Illnesses: Cold, flu, strep throat or UTIs
- Minor injuries: Small burns, cuts, sprains or bug bites
- Other concerns: Pink eye, rashes, migraines or eczema
We put together tips for if you are not sure when to go to and ER or urgent care.
CareNow® Urgent Care offers 15 clinics across Kansas City and are open with extended hours, walk-in options and online check-in to save time.
Visiting a Freestanding ER vs. Hospital ER
- Shorter waits: Freestanding ERs often have lower wait times compared to hospital ERs.
- Full-service care: From labs to imaging (X-rays, CT scans), freestanding ERs are well-
equipped for emergencies. - Pediatric expertise and training: Your child’s injury or illness is important. All HCA
Midwest Health ERs are pediatric-ready emergency rooms, which means you can trust
our specialists to know how to work with and treat your child on their level. If your child
needs a higher level of care, we can move kids to our Kids Express area within the main
ER at Overland Park Regional Medical Center. - Insurance accepted: They accept most insurance plans, including Medicare and
Medicaid. - 24/7 care: Open day and night, all year round!
Call for free advice when you’re unsure
Not sure if you should head to an ER, Freestanding ER or urgent care? Call the HCA Midwest Health Consult-a-Nurse for free advice on 844-70-NURSE. Whether you’re worried about your child’s fever or caring for an aging parent, their nurses can help you make the right decision.
Find a convenient location near you
HCA Midwest Health offers 10 ERs and freestanding ERs across the Kansas City region. There are also CareNow® Urgent Care clinics for less serious needs. No matter the situation, you’ll have access to trusted care close to home.
Be prepared before you need care
Emergencies are unpredictable, but being prepared isn’t! Save the nearest ER or
freestanding ER or urgent care location in your phone and keep the Consult-a-Nurse number handy: 844-70-NURSE. It’s peace of mind for when your family needs it most.
Your family’s health matters, and with these tips, you’ll know just where to go when it counts.
