Should I call my doctor? or go to the ER?

The healthcare system is the cornerstone of any society, tasked with the responsibility of ensuring the well-being of its citizens. However, in recent years, many healthcare systems around the world have found themselves stretched to their limits, struggling to provide adequate care due to exhaustion from various challenges. 

Sometimes, people want to be seen immediately for their medical problems, but that’s not always possible.  The global population is growing, and aging, leading to higher demand for healthcare services. 

There's a shortage of doctors, nurses, and other healthcare workers, resulting in overworked staff.

I came across a tweet by a Dr. Simi that perfectly describes how and when you should contact medical providers.

1. 

MINOR ILLNESSES - self-limiting illnesses, we expect you to manage at home or through your pharmacy. Colds, coughs, fever etc. Going to the PCP (GP) is not advisable. If not better in 5 days then call your GP.

2. 

ONGOING ILLNESSES - issues you have been dealing with for a while like aches and pains, period issues, fertility, prostate etc. You book a routine appointment for these and can be up to three weeks before you get an appointment. It is planned care, not an emergency.

3. 

URGENT: cannot wait like children under 5, urinary tract infections, acute back pain etc. Call your GP and you will most likely be attended to on the same day either virtually or in person.

4. 

EMERGENCIES: straight to ER (A&E) like chest pain, anaphylaxis, breathing problems, heavy bleeding, acute abdominal pain etc. You can call the ambulance or if safe, someone can drive you to the nearest hospital.

Let's all be mindful and try not to exhaust our health care providers, so the healthcare systems can continue to fulfill their vital role in society.