What is a sick visit?
A sick visit is an appointment reserved for patients with immediate health concerns. Sick visits help when you experience an unexpected injury or illness or need medical management for a complication with a chronic health condition.
Call to find out about availability before you spend time (and money) at the emergency room or local urgent care clinic. The staff at Northern Virginia Internal Medicine and Pediatrics reserve a few appointments each day for these same-day appointments.
What common conditions may require a sick visit?
Sick visits cover a wide range of urgent but not life-threatening conditions. Some of the most common reasons you might call to schedule a sick visit include:
- Flu or cold symptoms
- Fever/chills
- Upper respiratory infection
- Urinary tract infection
- Sinus infection
- Strep throat
- Unexplained rash
- Digestive distress
If you’re having an asthma flare-up, severe arthritis pain, or erratic blood sugar levels, call to schedule a sick visit, too. Sick visits do not replace your regular care visits, however.
When should I schedule a sick visit?
You can often manage mild to moderate symptoms successfully at home. But, if you have an illness that’s persistent or worsening, it’s a good idea to schedule an appointment to come in.
Symptoms that are concerning include:
- Chronic cough
- Severe throat pain
- Difficulty urinating
- Vomiting or diarrhea
- Dehydration
- Rash
- Prolonged fever
- Body aches and extreme fatigue
Call 911 if you’re experiencing a medical emergency, like symptoms of a heart attack or a deep stab wound.
What happens during a sick visit?
A sick visit addresses your immediate symptoms and helps you find relief to manage recovery at home. You receive a customized treatment plan that may include prescription medication and home care recommendations.
In some cases, you may require specific tests, like blood work or spirometry, for an accurate diagnosis. These tests can be done right in the office, so there’s no need to take the time to travel to another location.
Call the office right away if you need a sick visit, and the team at Northern Virginia Internal Medicine and Pediatrics will do everything possible to accommodate you.
