Primary, Virtual, Convenient, or Emergency Care? Know Where to Go (and When)

We know injury and illness can pop up when you least expect it. 

That’s why BJC Medical Group providers offer multiple care options, right at your fingertips. From minor ailments to chronic conditions, we make sure you have access to the care you need, whenever you need it.

Next time you need care, refer to this list of options

Primary Care

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What is it: Our primary care providers serve as a go-to partner for most of your general health care needs. They get to know you and your personal health care needs so they can provide personalized care that leads to healthier long-term outcomes. 

Why to use it: Primary care providers are the first stop for preventive and routine health care needs that arise because they offer:

• Availability: Patients can schedule appointments in person or through virtual care. For specialized care, they can also refer you to specialists at BJC Medical Group and WashU Medicine.
• Accessibility: Patients can use our online scheduling tool to book an earliest-available appointment with a primary care provider at a nearby location. 

When you should go: Book an appointment with your primary care provider for an annual wellness exam, or if you’re experiencing symptoms such as:

• Cold and flu symptoms (coughing, sore throat, sneezing)
• Sinus and allergy issues (itchy eyes, sinus infections, conjunctivitis)
• Women’s health issues (urinary tract infections, yeast infections)
• Heart disease (COPD, high blood pressure, high cholesterol, diabetes)
• Asthma
• Kidney disease
• Liver disease
• Thyroid disease
• Ear infections
• COVID-19 symptoms
• Body aches (headaches, earaches, mild back or joint pain)
• Skin and rash concerns
• Cold and Flu
• Sinus and Allergy
• Conjunctivitis (pink eye)
• Diarrhea
• Ear infections
• Eye irritation
• Minor headaches
• Migraines
• Sexually transmitted diseases (STD)
• Strep throat
• Insect bites
• Rashes (Poison ivy, ringworm, shingles, scabies, hives)
• Minor burns
• Minor scrapes, cuts, or bruises
• Joint sprains
• Nausea and vomiting
• Urinary tract infections (UTIs)
• Preventative care screenings and vaccinations
• Health advice (kidney or liver disease)
• Specialist referral
• Chronic pain
• Chronic condition management (such as diabetes)

Virtual care

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What is it: Did you wake up this morning with a sore throat or an unexpected stomach bug? With Virtual Care, BJC providers and nurse practitioners can provide you with consultations and treatments through a video or phone call. It’s quick and affordable health care—all from the comfort of your own home. 

Why to use it: Virtual care is best used for patients who want the convenience of a virtual visit or don’t want to leave the house. Virtual care offers:

• Availability: 24/7 access
• Accessibility: New and existing BJC patients 12 and older can schedule an appointment online.
• Affordability: The same cost as a primary care visit.

When to use it: Schedule a virtual care appointment if you are experiencing:

• Cold and flu
• Sinus and allergy
• Conjunctivitis (pink eye)
• Diarrhea
• Ear infections
• Eye irritation
• Minor headaches
• Strep throat
• Insect bites
• Rashes: Poison ivy, ringworm, shingles, scabies, hives
• Minor burns
• Minor scrapes, cuts, or bruises
• Joint sprains
• Nausea and vomiting
• Urinary tract infections (UTIs)

Convenient care

Schedule an Appointment

What is it: BJC Medical Group Convenient Care provides quick, in-person care for minor injuries or illnesses. You can schedule a same-day appointment, a next-day appointment, or walk into the location nearest you to receive care with little-to-no wait.

Why to use it: Convenient care allows patients to get same-day care for minor illnesses and injuries through a scheduled or walk-in appointment. Convenient care offers: 

• Availability: 8 a.m.–8 p.m., daily
• Accessibility: New and existing patients of all ages can receive care at 11 locations in Missouri and Illinois
• Affordability: Costs the same as a primary care visit

When you should go: Visit a convenient care location if you’re experiencing:

• Cold and flu
• Sinus and allergy
• Conjunctivitis (pink eye)
• Diarrhea
• Ear infections
• Eye irritation
• Minor headaches
• Sexually transmitted diseases (STDs)
• Strep throat
• Insect bites
• Rashes: Poison ivy, ringworm, shingles, scabies, hives
• Minor burns
• Minor scrapes, cuts, or bruises
• Joint sprains
• Nausea and vomiting
• Urinary tract infections (UTIs)

Emergency care

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What is it: When emergencies happen, every second counts. BJC’s Emergency Departments provide 24/7 care for patients experiencing serious or life-threatening injuries and illnesses. 

When to use it: BJC Emergency Departments care for patients experiencing a sudden or severe illnesses and injuries. Our Emergency Departments offer:

• Availability: Open 24/7 daily
• Accessibility: New and existing BJC patients of all ages can be treated in our emergency departments

When you should go: Check in to the Emergency Department if you’re experiencing sudden or severe health risks such as: 

• Chest pain or labored breathing
• Severe allergic reactions
• Heart attack or stroke symptoms
• Serious injury or trauma (broken bones, severe burns)
• Seizures or fainting
• Pregnancy complications
• Infant illnesses

In case of emergency, please dial 911 if you or a loved one are experiencing serious or life-threatening injury or illness.

Next time you experience an unexpected injury or illness, remember: 

• Primary Care: Your go-to partner for personalized care, from preventive to sick care.
• Virtual Care: Fast, affordable, at-home treatment for minor conditions.
• Convenient Care: In-person treatment for health needs that can’t wait.
• Emergency Care: Critical, life-saving care.

BJC Medical Group makes getting care simple—so you can focus on your health.