4 Common Reasons to Visit Urgent Care  

Urgent Care clinics are available to diagnose and treat a wide range of medical conditions – from common infections to accidental injuries.  

“A lot of people go back and forth on when to visit Urgent Care, the Emergency Department, their primary care provider, or just treat at home,” said Dr. Afsoun Sichani, Medical Director of WVU Medicine Urgent Care-East. “Urgent Care is a great resource for non-life-threatening conditions that require quick attention and treatment. If you’re dealing with something acute that really shouldn’t wait for your next check-up, but isn’t a medical emergency, I’d recommend coming to see us at Urgent Care.” 

According to Dr. Sichani, these are some of the most common issues seen at WVU Medicine Urgent Care in our area. 

1. Infections 

“If you’re showing signs of infection, you should visit an Urgent Care near you,” Dr. Sichani said. “We can provide rapid testing and prescribe treatment to prevent the infection from spreading and causing serious complications.” 

Care and treatment are available for: 

• Ear infections.
• Urinary Tract Infections.
• Upper Respiratory Infections.  
• Yeast Infections.
• Sinus Infections.
• Infected wounds or sores. 

2. Sprains and Fractures 

Accidents happen to everyone, and even a minor trip, slip, of fall can result in injuries like sprains and fractures.  

“If you’re dealing with what seems to be a simple fracture or sprain injury with no visible bone or blood, we can diagnose and treat that in the Urgent Care setting,” Dr. Sichani explained.  

X-ray capabilities are available at Spring Mills, Inwood, and Charles Town Urgent Care centers in the Eastern Panhandle. 

3. Rashes and Skin Issues 

Skin rashes, moderate sunburn, and minor burns can all be treated at Urgent Care.  

“We often see cases of poison ivy or poison oak, ringworm, and cellulitis,” Dr. Sichani said.  

For burns, Urgent Care providers can assess a burn’s severity apply or prescribe topical treatments to soothe and heal the skin; and advise about aftercare.  

4. Cuts and Lacerations 

“A common injury we see at Urgent Care is a laceration,” Dr. Sichani said. “Often, it’s when people cut themselves cooking, come in contact with sharp objects, or as a result of falls.” 

If the cut is superficial or moderately deep with controlled bleeding, it can likely be treated at an Urgent Care where providers can clean and dress the wound and, if necessary, close with stitches. 

 If blood is gushing or spurting, or bleeding can’t be controlled with pressure, you should seek emergency medical attention instead. 

“WVU Medicine Urgent Care is here to ensure our community has access to vital care when they need it,” Dr. Sichani said. “Our Inwood, Spring Mills, and Charles Town locations are open every day from 8 a.m. to 8 p.m. including weekends, and we have virtual care options available as well.” 

Learn more: Locations | WVU Medicine