Deciding where to go when you’re feeling unwell can be confusing. Patients of Jupiter Internal Medicine Associates are encouraged to first contact their internal medicine doctor for guidance—especially when the situation isn’t clearly life-threatening. As Dr. Daniel Boss often advises, “Call your doctor first”—it may save you unnecessary stress, time, and expense.
Emergency Situations Require the ER
Certain symptoms and medical emergencies should never be delayed. If you are experiencing chest pain, difficulty breathing, stroke symptoms, severe trauma, or uncontrolled bleeding, go directly to the ER at Jupiter Medical Center or Palm Beach Gardens Medical Center. These hospitals are fully equipped with emergency staff, advanced imaging, and critical care resources necessary for life-threatening conditions.
Non-Emergent, But Urgent? Visit Urgent Care
When your condition isn’t life-threatening but still needs timely medical attention, urgent care is a reliable option. Examples include sprains, minor cuts needing stitches, ear infections, fevers, or dehydration. Local urgent care centers near Jupiter and Palm Beach Gardens are often open late and on weekends. While not a substitute for your internal medicine physician, they provide immediate support when your doctor’s office is closed.
Mild Symptoms? Contact Your Jupiter Internal Medicine Doctor
For less severe symptoms or when you’re unsure, your first step should be contacting your Jupiter Internal Medicine doctor. Whether it’s a persistent cough, low-grade fever, rash, or general fatigue, your primary care physician can assess your symptoms and recommend the most appropriate course of action. Jupiter Internal Medicine Associates offers same-day appointments and virtual visits to address these concerns quickly and thoroughly.
Don’t Guess—Call Jupiter Internal Medicine Associates FIRST
If you’re debating whether to go to the ER or urgent care, Dr. Boss’s advice is clear: “Call your doctor first.” Your internal medicine physician understands your full medical history and can help determine the best course of action. For example, symptoms like chest pain or signs of a stroke should always prompt a visit to the ER. However, for sore throats, mild fevers, or rashes, urgent care may be more appropriate—and in many cases, your internal medicine doctor can manage these issues directly, either in the office or via a virtual consultation. Reaching out to your doctor first helps you avoid unnecessary emergency visits, ensures continuity of care, and gives you peace of mind that you’re taking the right steps for your health.