When your child is sick or injured, it’s natural to panic and head straight for the closest emergency department (ED). In some cases, the illness or injury can be handled at an urgent care clinic, or treatment can wait until your child’s doctor can see them. How can you tell the difference? Pediatrician Salwa Khan, M.D., explains.

What is the difference between an urgent care facility and an emergency department?

An urgent care center is a good place to go when you are sick or injured, but can’t wait for an appointment with your regular doctor. Conditions like ear pain, sore throat, vomiting, sprains and shallow cuts can be treated there.

EDs are the best place to go for severe or life-threatening conditions. They have a wider range of labs and diagnostic testing compared to urgent care centers. Providers also have access to a number of specialists, if needed. Johns Hopkins Bayview has a separate pediatric ED where providers specialize in the care of children.

What is the benefit of a pediatric ED?

Providers are trained in the care of children and bring an extra dose of understanding to a frightened child. Whether it’s placing an IV or giving medicine, everything is done with the care and compassion needed to help the child and their family feel comfortable.

Our Pediatric Center is a combined ED and inpatient unit staffed by a team of providers who are trained in the medical, emotional and developmental needs of children.

For more information, call the Pediatric Emergency Department at 410-550-0350.