Acute Care

Your Health, Our Priority

Acute Care at 55 Lock Street is open seven days a week, from 8:00 a.m. to 10:00 p.m., and offers in-person visits for serious or acute illnesses or injuries.

We are dedicated to providing you with the urgent care you need when you need it. Your health and well-being are our top priorities.

What is Acute Care?

Acute illnesses or injuries require swift medical attention but typically will not cause life-threatening situations or severe impairment if treated promptly. Here’s what qualifies:

• Prompt Medical Attention: Necessary to avoid significant health deterioration.
• Urgent Care: Needed immediately and cannot wait for your regular provider.
• Non-hospital care: This does not require care offered by the hospital emergency department, but it is still urgent.
• Some examples of Acute Care visits:
  • Sprains and strains
  • Vomiting
  • Chest Pain
  • Minor cuts that may require stitches
  • Dizziness
  • Abdominal pain

For life-threatening emergencies, call 911 immediately.

How to Get Started:

Before coming in, call us at (203) 432-0123. You will speak with a nurse who will assess your condition and guide you to the best care option. This may include:

• In-Person or Telemedicine Visit: Depending on your needs, we may schedule a visit with an Acute Care provider.
• Primary Care Appointment: We may schedule you with your primary care team for less urgent needs during regular hours.
• Self-Care Guidance: Recommendations on how to care for yourself at home.
• Emergency Department Referral: For severe conditions requiring hospital care.

What to Expect in Acute Care:

• Quick Check-In: A nurse will see you shortly after you arrive.
• Wait Time Estimate: We’ll let you know how long you might wait to see a clinician.
• Priority for Sicker Patients: Patients who are more ill will be seen first, even if they arrived after you.
• Visit Duration: Most patients spend about 1-2 hours in Acute Care. This may vary depending on the day and time.
• Referral Guidance: Depending on your symptoms, we may suggest that you visit a different department or return at a later time.
• Family and Friends: Please let us know if you would like someone to join you in the exam room.
• Copays: Please note that copays may apply.

Pediatrics Note:

Our pediatric triage team is available by phone Monday to Friday, 8:30 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. After hours, the Acute Care staff will contact the on-call pediatrician if necessary. A pediatric provider is available in Acute Care to see patients with acute problems on Saturdays, Sundays, recess days, and holidays from 10:30 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. Please call before coming in.

Copay Information:

• After Hours: A copay may apply for visits after 6:00 p.m. Monday through Friday, weekends, University holidays, and recess days.
• Copays are due at the time of service. Please be aware of your health benefits coverage and review your Schedule of Benefits.

Acute Care welcomes in-person visits from 8:00 a.m. to 10:00 p.m., seven days a week. We also offer RN telephone triage 24/7 for triage and clinical guidance. While an appointment is not needed, we encourage you to call us before coming in at (203-432-0123).