Fairview Range Blog

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Should I Visit Urgent Care or the Emergency Department?

You feel awful. 

You can tell you need help – but where should you go? Is it serious enough to head to the emergency department or will urgent care do? The last thing you need is another headache. 

Don’t worry. 

At Fairview Range in Hibbing, our Urgent Care and Emergency Department are in the same location. All you have to do is head there and then make your decision. The choice is yours. Not sure which? Here are a few simple questions to consider. 

Is it an emergency? 

Call 911 or if you’re able, go straight to the emergency department. 

What time is it? 

Our Urgent Care is open 9 a.m. to 10 p.m. (Note: beginning 9/26/23, the hours will be 8 a.m. to 9 p.m.) seven days a week, including weekends and holidays. Our Emergency Department is open 24/7 every day of the year. 

“There aren’t many urgent cares that are open every day and have extended hours,” explains Kim Weggum, Fairview Range’s Emergency Department and Urgent Care Manager. “It sets us apart.” 

Having both options available every day gives our community choices when it comes to their care. We have built a system that ensures that patients get the best care possible for their unique needs. 

What are your symptoms? 

In general, head to the Emergency Department if you’re experiencing one or more of the following symptoms: 

  • Chest pain
  • Severe difficulty breathing 
  • Worsening pregnancy issues
  • Severe cuts or burns
  • Head injury that causes seizures, vomiting, or loss of consciousness
  • Exposure to rabies
  • Having stroke symptoms (sudden loss of vision or balance, drooping face, arm weakness, or slurred speech)
  • Brain function changes
  • Severe, sudden abdominal pain
  • Severe, sudden headache
  • Seizure
  • Sexual assault 
  • Suicidal ideation

In general, choose Urgent Care when your symptoms are the following: 

  • Fever*  
  • Minor burns
  • Minor allergic reactions (no difficulty breathing)
  • Minor wounds requiring stitches
  • Minor head injury or concussion
  • Sore throat
  • Ear infection 
  • Vomiting
  • Diarrhea
  • Minor skin conditions (rashes, abscesses, skin infections, bug bites)
  • Urinary or sexual health concerns
  • Nose bleeds

*Infants less than 60 days old experiencing fever should be taken to the Emergency Department

Where is our Emergency Department and Urgent Care? 

Fairview Range Medical Center 

North Entrance

750 East 34th Street

Hibbing, MN

What to expect? 

When you walk into the North Entrance, you’ll turn left and head down the corridor to the reception desk. There will be plenty of signage. Once you arrive at the desk, you’ll tell them if you’d like to be seen in the Emergency Department or Urgent Care and your visit will be arranged. 

What to bring? 

It’s a smart idea to bring your driver license and health insurance card. If you can’t find them don’t worry. You will still receive care and can give them your information later. The main priority is getting you the care you need. 

Can patients bring visitors? 

At this time, visitors are allowed. 

There for You Care 

Whether you’re here for urgent or emergency care, we work hard to provide great care at every level. Remember, if it’s an emergency, call 911 right away.

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