Published December 08, 2023
’Tis the season when respiratory viruses spike. But how do you know if it’s a cold, the flu, RSV or COVID? And where do you turn? Start with you doctor, but the following guide can help you choose the most right setting to get the care you need – which may save you time, money and get you better sooner.
If you need immediate care for a life-threatening illness or injury, call 911 or go to the nearest hospital emergency department.
When cold and flu symptoms show up, consider walk-in/urgent care centers for treatment – and you don’t need an appointment. We operate walk-in/urgent care locations, in Connecticut and New York.
Find walk-in/urgent care near you >
When you have minor, non-life threatening ailments like colds, flu, allergies, sinus infections or nagging coughs, consider video visits. Clinicians can diagnose symptoms, prescribe medication and send prescriptions to your pharmacy.
Online scheduling available for Yale New Haven Health Urgent Care Telehealth
In a life-threatening emergency, call 911. The hospital emergency department is for severe illnesses or injuries like chest pain, trouble breathing, uncontrolled bleeding, serious injuries or cuts, abdominal pain or signs of stroke.
Find an emergency department near you >
Think about the different care settings before you need medical care. Treatment in an emergency department can cost two to three times more than the same care in your provider's office. Also, your health insurance may require you to pay a higher copay for care in an emergency department.
Check our chart to help you choose the best care setting for your needs.
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