When an unexpected illness or injury happens, it’s normal to have questions.
Often, the first question on our minds is, “Should I go to the emergency room, or should I go to an express/urgent care facility?”
The right answer isn’t just about convenience; it can impact how quickly you receive care, the cost of your visit and, of course, your health outcome.
With three Express Care locations throughout the Lowcountry – in Port Royal, Okatie and Bluffton – and an emergency room in Beaufort staffed with compassionate, skilled physicians and clinical staff, Beaufort Memorial offers options for immediate care.
Understanding which of these options is right for your health needs can help direct you where to go when you need it most.
“When you’re not feeling well or someone you love is injured or sick, it can be hard to know where to go,” said Beaufort Memorial Assistant Chief Nursing Officer Ashley Hildreth, MSN, RN, CEN, SANE. “Knowing the difference between emergency care and Express Care helps patients get the right care, at the right place, as efficiently as possible.”
What’s the Difference Between the ER and Express Care?
The main difference between the ER and Express Care is the severity of your condition.
- ER — Designed for life- or limb-threatening conditions that require immediate, advanced medical care
- Express Care (Urgent Care) — Ideal for minor illness and injuries that, while still require prompt attention, are not life-threatening
When to go to the ER
The Beaufort Memorial Pratt Emergency Center is open 24/7 and equipped to handle critical conditions where every second counts.
You should go to the ER or call 911 if you are experiencing:
Life-Threatening Symptoms
- Chest pain or pressure
- Difficulty breathing
- Signs of stroke (face drooping, arm weakness, slurred speech, sudden balance issues)
- Sudden loss of vision or blurred vision
- Changes in mental state or confusion
Serious Injuries or Conditions
- Head trauma
- Neck or spine injuries
- Severe or uncontrolled bleeding
- Sudden, severe pain
- Any conditions that could result in permanent disability or death if untreated
“If symptoms are sudden, severe or could be life-threatening, the emergency room is the safest place to be,” said Hildreth. “Chest pain, difficulty breathing, stroke symptoms, serious injuries or uncontrolled bleeding should never wait. Every second counts; call 911 or go to the ER.”
When to Choose Express Care
Beaufort Memorial Express Care clinics are a convenient option when you need same-day care, but your condition isn’t an emergency. These clinics take walk-ins and are open seven days a week.
Common Conditions Treated at Express Care
- Fever, colds, sore throat or earaches
- Sprains, strains or minor fractures
- Minor cuts, lacerations or contusions
- Mild infections or flu-like symptoms
- Routine physicals (work, sports or school)
Express Care clinics also offer on-site X-rays and lab services, making them a strong option when your primary care provider isn’t available.
The Future of Immediate Care
Technology and innovative models of care delivery offer even more options for patients seeking immediate care.
BMH Care Anywhere offers patients the opportunity to schedule a virtual telehealth visit with their healthcare provider. This platform allows patients to schedule virtual visits for:
- Well care
- Medication checks and refills
- Chronic disease management (diabetes, high blood pressure, COPD, etc.)
- Follow-up care
- Sick visits
Benefits of telehealth include:
- Evening and weekend care — If your provider’s office is closed and you don’t need to visit an urgent care clinic, you can still receive care through video visits.
- Healthcare wherever you are ¬— Telehealth visits ensure you can see your health care provider even if you’re traveling or quarantining.
- Lower cost — At BMH Care Anywhere, visits only cost $67.
- Saves you time — Care appointments are around 10 minutes each from the comfort of wherever you are, saving you drive and wait time.
Opening in 2027, the Beaufort Memorial Emergency & Urgent Care on Hilton Head Island will offer both ER and urgent care services under the same roof.
One of the first models of its kind in the state, this combination facility developed in partnership with Intuitive Health will take the guesswork out of immediate care for patients, offering both levels of service and billing them appropriately for the care they receive.
This two-in-one model will be replicated throughout the Lowcountry, offering convenient, cost-effective care.
Construction on the Hilton Head Island facility began in November 2025.
When it comes to your health, timing and location matter. Beaufort Memorial offers multiple options so you can get the right care at the right time. By understanding when to go to the ER and when Express Care is a better option, you and your loved ones can get the care you need, exactly when you need it.
If you are experiencing a life- or limb-threatening emergency, please call 911.