PITTSBURGH – As COVID-19 cases continue to surge across western Pennsylvania and emergency room volumes increase, Allegheny Health Network (AHN) has put together a guide to help patients who need immediate medical attention find the optimal site of care.
“Across the region, hospitals are experiencing a significant increase in COVID related hospitalizations, staffing shortages, transfer increases, and more people visiting the emergency department,” said Thomas Campbell, MD, Chair, AHN Emergency Medicine Institute. “The last thing we want is for patients to experience a long inconvenient wait in the ED, when they might be cared for much more quickly through an appropriate alternative care site or portal.”
AHN’s dedicated 24/7 nurse on call line (412-NURSE-4-U) can help answer patient questions about their symptoms and identify what kind of care a patient may need. AHN’s nurses can also assist in making an appointment with an AHN doctor or other specialists. AHN offers the following recommendations with regard to appropriate sources of care based on common clinical needs.
Emergency Room – For potentially life-threatening situations that need immediate medical attention or involve severe pain.
- Chest pain
- Stroke symptoms
- Difficulty breathing
- Uncontrolled bleeding
- Head Injury
- Major burns or broken bones
Video Visits – For symptoms that can be discussed and diagnosed over a video visit with an AHN provider, schedule via MyChart.
- Coronavirus concerns
- Back pain
- Diarrhea or constipation
- Sinus and/or allergy problems
- Flu-like symptoms
- Eye irritation
- Urinary problems
Doctor’s Office – For routine checkups, non-urgent health concerns and care for chronic conditions.
- Preventative medicine
- On-site testing
- Mental health management
- Minor sprains, cuts, and pains
- Seasonal allergies
Urgent/Express Care – For conditions that should be treated within 24 hours but are not life-threatening.
- Strains and sprains
- Minor broken bones – like fingers and toes
- Infections (ear, throat, urinary tract)
- Minor cuts and burns
- Dizziness
If you have any questions about the best site of care for you, please call AHN’s 24/7 nurse line (412-NURSE-4-U) to assist you.
