How Much Does Urgent Care Cost Without Insurance? Answers & Smart Money-Saving Tips ๐ฐ๐ฅ
If you’re facing an unexpected medical issue and donโt have health insurance, urgent care centers can be a cost-effective alternative to emergency rooms. However, prices can vary significantly depending on your location, the type of treatment needed, and the facility you choose.
Weโve compiled a detailed, expert-backed guide to help you navigate urgent care costs, avoid unnecessary expenses, and find the most affordable options when seeking medical care.
๐ Key Takeaways: Quick Answers to Your Questions
- How much does an urgent care visit cost without insurance? A basic visit costs between $100 – $250, but prices increase with additional services.
- What are the extra costs I might face?
- X-rays: $200 – $500
- Lab tests: $100 – $1,000+
- Medications: $100 – $150
- Why do urgent care prices vary so much? Costs depend on location, facility type, severity of condition, and time of visit.
- How does urgent care compare to an ER visit? Urgent care is much cheaperโER visits cost $1,500 – $3,000+ for similar services.
- How can I reduce urgent care expenses? Ask for discounts, compare pricing beforehand, and look for community health centers.
๐ฐ How Much Does Urgent Care Cost Without Insurance?
Without insurance, urgent care fees are based on the type of medical attention required. Hereโs a breakdown of common costs:
Service ๐ฅ | Price Range ๐ต | What’s Included? ๐ |
---|---|---|
Basic Visit | $100 – $250 | Consultation, diagnosis, basic treatment. |
X-Ray | $200 – $500 | Imaging for fractures, lung issues, etc. |
Blood Tests | $100 – $1,000+ | Includes tests for infections, diabetes, kidney function, etc. |
Strep/Flu Test | $50 – $150 | Rapid testing for strep throat or influenza. |
Urinalysis | $30 – $100 | Checks for infections or kidney issues. |
IV Fluids | $100 – $300 | Hydration treatment for dehydration. |
Prescription Medications | $100 – $150 | Antibiotics, pain relievers, or other prescribed drugs. |
๐ก Pro Tip: Always ask for an itemized bill upfront to avoid surprise charges. Some urgent care centers bundle pricing into packages that may reduce your total cost.
๐ Why Do Urgent Care Costs Vary So Much?
Several factors can significantly impact the price of your urgent care visit. Understanding these variables can help you plan ahead and reduce costs.
Cost Factor ๐ฐ | Why It Affects Price ๐ค | How to Save ๐ก |
---|---|---|
Location ๐ | Urban centers have higher prices due to rent and overhead costs. | Check suburban or rural urgent care centers for better rates. |
Facility Type ๐ฅ | Large hospital-affiliated centers charge more than independent clinics. | Look for independent urgent care facilities instead. |
Severity of Condition ๐ | Minor illnesses cost less, but serious conditions require extra tests & treatments. | Call ahead and ask if your symptoms need lab tests or imaging. |
Time of Visit โฐ | Weekends, holidays, and late-night visits can cost more. | If possible, go during normal weekday hours. |
๐ก Pro Tip: Some urgent care clinics offer telehealth consultations for a lower price (usually $50 – $100) if a physical exam isnโt required.
๐ Urgent Care vs. Emergency Room: Whatโs the Cost Difference?
Urgent care is significantly cheaper than emergency rooms for non-life-threatening conditions. Hereโs a side-by-side cost comparison:
Condition ๐ค | Urgent Care ๐ฐ | Emergency Room ๐ |
---|---|---|
Minor Cuts & Wounds | $100 – $250 | $1,000 – $3,000 |
Flu, Colds, & Strep Throat | $100 – $200 | $800 – $1,500 |
X-Ray for Minor Injury | $200 – $500 | $1,500 – $3,000+ |
IV Fluids for Dehydration | $100 – $300 | $1,500 – $2,500 |
Sprains & Fractures | $250 – $500 | $2,000 – $5,000 |
๐ก Pro Tip: If your condition is not life-threatening, urgent care is the smarter financial choice. Only go to the ER for serious emergencies like chest pain, stroke symptoms, or major injuries.
๐ธ How to Reduce Your Urgent Care Bill (Even Without Insurance)
If youโre uninsured, you donโt have to overpay for urgent care. Here are practical ways to cut costs:
Money-Saving Tip ๐ต | How It Helps ๐ก | Where to Find It ๐ |
---|---|---|
Ask for a Cash Discount | Some clinics offer lower rates if you pay upfront. | Independent urgent care centers. |
Check for Sliding Scale Fees | Costs are adjusted based on income. | Community health clinics, some urgent care facilities. |
Use Telehealth Services | Virtual visits cost less than in-person exams. | Teladoc, Amwell, or direct urgent care websites. |
Visit a Retail Walk-In Clinic | CVS MinuteClinic and Walgreens offer lower-cost care for minor illnesses. | Retail pharmacies with health clinics. |
Look for Urgent Care Memberships | Some centers offer monthly plans for unlimited visits. | Private urgent care centers. |
Avoid Weekends & Peak Hours | Some locations charge more for high-demand times. | Go on weekdays before noon. |
๐ก Pro Tip: Call ahead and ask for an estimated cost breakdownโsome clinics offer price transparency and lower rates for self-pay patients.
๐๏ธ Key Final Takeaways
- Basic urgent care visits range from $100 – $250, but extra services like X-rays, lab tests, and medications can add to the total cost.
- Urgent care is a fraction of the cost of an ER visit, which can run $1,500 – $3,000+ for similar treatments.
- Costs vary by location, clinic type, and severity of the conditionโshopping around can save you money.
- Many clinics offer cash discounts, sliding-scale fees, and payment plans for uninsured patients.
- Avoid ER visits for minor illnesses and injuries to prevent excessive medical bills.
FAQs ๐๐ฐ๐ฅ
Comment 1: “Why does urgent care charge so much if it’s supposed to be cheaper than the ER?”
Urgent care centers offer a more affordable alternative to the ER, but costs can still be significant due to several underlying factors that affect pricing.
Factor ๐ฐ | Why It Raises Costs ๐ค | How to Minimize Expenses ๐ก |
---|---|---|
Medical Staffing | Urgent care employs trained doctors, nurses, and X-ray techs, all of whom require competitive salaries. | Choose clinics that use nurse practitioners (NPs) or physician assistants (PAs) for minor casesโthey often charge less. |
Facility Overhead | Rent, utilities, and maintaining medical equipment all add to the bill. | Visit independent clinics instead of hospital-affiliated urgent care centersโthey often have lower costs. |
On-Site Diagnostics | X-rays, lab tests, and IV fluids require expensive machines and supplies. | Ask if basic treatment is available without additional tests unless absolutely necessary. |
Time-Based Fees | Some clinics charge more for evening, weekend, or holiday visits. | Go during weekday business hours to avoid peak pricing. |
Supply Costs | Clinics must purchase medical supplies, medications, and PPE. | Bring your own over-the-counter medications (pain relievers, antihistamines) to avoid paying clinic prices. |
๐ก Pro Tip: Always ask for an itemized bill to identify any avoidable charges and negotiate fees if needed.
Comment 2: “How can I tell if my medical issue is serious enough for the ER instead of urgent care?”
Urgent care is perfect for non-life-threatening conditions, but certain symptoms require immediate emergency attention. Use this comparison to decide where to go:
Condition ๐ค | Urgent Care โ | Emergency Room ๐จ |
---|---|---|
Mild Fever & Flu | โ Yes | โ No |
Severe Chest Pain | โ No | ๐ Yes (Possible heart attack) |
Small Cuts & Stitches | โ Yes | โ No |
Heavy Bleeding | โ No | ๐ Yes |
Sprains & Minor Fractures | โ Yes | โ No |
Broken Bones Protruding from Skin | โ No | ๐ Yes |
Mild Allergic Reactions | โ Yes | โ No |
Severe Breathing Issues | โ No | ๐ Yes (Possible anaphylaxis) |
๐ก Pro Tip: If youโre unsure, call urgent care and explain your symptomsโthey can advise whether you need emergency care or if they can treat you.
Comment 3: “Are there any urgent care chains that consistently offer lower prices?”
Not all urgent care centers charge the same ratesโsome national chains provide affordable pricing across multiple locations. Hereโs how some of the most well-known options compare:
Urgent Care Chain ๐ฅ | Average Cost ๐ฐ | Best For ๐ | Additional Benefits ๐ก |
---|---|---|---|
CVS MinuteClinic | $99 – $139 | Simple illnesses, vaccinations | Transparent pricing online |
Walgreens Healthcare Clinics | $100 – $150 | Minor illnesses, physicals | Convenient for quick visits |
NextCare Urgent Care | $125 – $175 | General urgent care needs | Membership plans available |
CityMD (East Coast) | $150 – $250 | Walk-in care in metro areas | In-house X-rays & labs |
MedExpress Urgent Care | $120 – $180 | Routine medical issues | Accepts many discount programs |
๐ก Pro Tip: Check urgent care membership programsโsome clinics offer flat monthly fees for unlimited visits.
Comment 4: “I need multiple services (X-rays, lab tests). Can I negotiate urgent care prices?”
Yes! Many urgent care centers allow price negotiations, especially for uninsured patients paying in cash. Hereโs how you can lower your bill:
Negotiation Strategy ๐ต | How It Helps ๐ฅ | Best Time to Ask โณ |
---|---|---|
Ask for a Cash Discount | Many clinics provide lower prices for upfront cash payments. | Before treatment beginsโmention you are uninsured. |
Request a Bundled Package | Some urgent care centers bundle services (exam + lab tests) for a lower rate. | During the consultation, ask if packages are available. |
Decline Unnecessary Tests | Avoid overpaying for lab work you may not need immediately. | Before agreeing to extra tests, ask if they are truly necessary. |
Use a Discount Health Card | Some discount programs offer lower urgent care rates. | Before payment, check if they accept programs like GoodRx. |
๐ก Pro Tip: Always ask for an itemized cost estimate before services are performedโthis allows you to negotiate or decline unnecessary charges.
Comment 5: “Can I use telehealth instead of visiting urgent care?”
Telehealth can be a cost-effective alternative for certain medical issues that donโt require in-person exams.
Condition ๐ฑ | Telehealth Visit โ | In-Person Urgent Care Needed ๐ |
---|---|---|
Cold & Flu Symptoms | โ Yes | โ No |
Rashes or Skin Issues | โ Yes | โ No (Unless severe infection) |
Urinary Tract Infections | โ Yes | โ No |
Minor Allergic Reactions | โ Yes | โ No |
Severe Injuries (Cuts, Burns, Fractures) | โ No | โ Yes |
Breathing Issues & Chest Pain | โ No | โ Yes (Go to ER if severe) |
๐ก Pro Tip: Telehealth appointments typically cost between $50 – $100, making them a budget-friendly alternative for mild illnesses.
Comment 6: “How can I avoid surprise medical bills at urgent care?”
Medical billing can be confusing, and unexpected charges can quickly add up. Hereโs how to avoid getting caught off guard:
Step ๐ | Why It Matters ๐ก | How to Do It โ |
---|---|---|
Call Ahead & Ask for Pricing | Clinics charge different prices for the same service. | Get a price estimate before visiting. |
Request an Itemized Bill | Ensures you only pay for necessary treatments. | Ask for detailed breakdowns of charges. |
Avoid Extra Tests Unless Needed | Additional labs & X-rays increase costs significantly. | Ask if the test is truly necessary or can wait. |
Check for Payment Plans | Some clinics allow you to pay over time. | Inquire before treatment starts. |
๐ก Pro Tip: Always check reviews for urgent care centers in your areaโsome have a history of overcharging uninsured patients.
Comment 7: “Do urgent care centers have prescription discounts for uninsured patients?”
Some urgent care clinics partner with pharmacies to offer medication discounts, while others provide direct savings for cash-paying patients.
Option ๐ | How It Lowers Prescription Costs ๐ฐ | Where to Find It ๐ |
---|---|---|
Urgent Care In-House Discounts | Some clinics offer generic meds at a lower price. | Ask at the front desk before paying. |
GoodRx & SingleCare Coupons | Saves up to 80% on prescriptions. | Use at major pharmacies like CVS, Walgreens. |
Retailer Prescription Programs | Walmart, Costco, and Kroger offer $4-$10 meds. | Enroll in free pharmacy savings plans. |
๐ก Pro Tip: Before filling a prescription, compare prices at multiple pharmaciesโsome charge double the price for the same medication.
Comment 8: “Why do urgent care centers charge different prices for the same services?”
Urgent care costs are not standardized across the country because each facility operates independently, with different pricing structures based on a variety of economic and medical factors.
Pricing Factor ๐ฐ | Why It Varies ๐ | How to Get the Best Price ๐ก |
---|---|---|
Location & Cost of Living ๐ | Facilities in major cities face higher rent and wages, increasing patient fees. | Check urgent care in suburban or rural areas for better pricing. |
Independent vs. Hospital-Affiliated ๐ฅ | Private urgent care centers tend to charge less than those linked to hospitals. | Call ahead to compare prices between hospital-owned and stand-alone clinics. |
Equipment & Special Services โ๏ธ | Clinics with on-site labs, X-rays, and IV treatments charge higher fees. | Choose facilities that only perform the tests you truly need. |
Demand & Peak Hours โฐ | Clinics sometimes charge more on weekends, holidays, and evenings due to high demand. | Visit during weekday mornings to avoid peak-hour pricing. |
๐ก Pro Tip: Always ask for a self-pay discount and inquire about flat-rate packages that include consultation and treatment in one fee.
Comment 9: “Are walk-in retail clinics (like CVS or Walgreens) cheaper than urgent care?”
Yes! Retail health clinics (inside CVS, Walgreens, Walmart, and other pharmacies) typically offer more affordable care for minor illnesses and preventive services. However, they are not equipped for complex medical issues.
Service Needed ๐ | Retail Clinic (CVS, Walgreens) ๐ | Urgent Care ๐ฅ |
---|---|---|
Basic Sick Visits (Cold, Flu, Strep Throat) | โ Yes ($80 – $150) | โ Yes ($100 – $250) |
Physicals & Vaccinations | โ Yes (Usually under $100) | โ Yes (But often pricier) |
Bloodwork & Lab Tests | โ ๏ธ Limited (Basic tests only) | โ Yes (Wider variety of tests) |
X-Rays, Sutures, or IV Treatments | โ No | โ Yes |
Prescription Refills for Common Medications | โ Yes | โ Yes |
๐ก Pro Tip: If you just need a strep test, flu shot, or minor care, a retail clinic is significantly cheaper than urgent care.
Comment 10: “If I go to urgent care without insurance, will they turn me away if I canโt pay upfront?”
Most urgent care centers will not deny treatment, but payment policies vary by facility. Unlike emergency rooms, which must provide care regardless of a patientโs ability to pay (per EMTALA laws), urgent care centers are private businesses and can require upfront payment.
Payment Policy ๐ต | What It Means for Uninsured Patients ๐จ | How to Prepare ๐ |
---|---|---|
Payment Due at Time of Visit | Many centers require full payment before treatment begins. | Call ahead to ask about costs and payment expectations. |
Sliding Scale Fees | Some clinics adjust costs based on income level. | Look for community health centers offering these options. |
Payment Plans Available | A few facilities allow monthly installments for expensive treatments. | Ask if installment options exist before agreeing to services. |
Charity or Discounted Programs | Nonprofit or government-supported clinics sometimes provide low-cost care. | Check if there are federally qualified health centers (FQHCs) near you. |
๐ก Pro Tip: If you canโt pay upfront, ask if they can bill you later or if they have a reduced-cost self-pay option.
Comment 11: “Are urgent care membership plans worth it for uninsured patients?”
Urgent care membership plans are a great option for uninsured individuals who need frequent medical visits. These programs charge a flat monthly or annual fee for discounted or unlimited visits.
Membership Plan Benefit ๐๏ธ | How It Saves Money ๐ฐ | Who Should Consider It? ๐ค |
---|---|---|
Flat Fee for Unlimited Visits | No additional charges for doctor consultations. | Ideal for people with chronic conditions needing frequent care. |
Discounted Services (X-rays, Lab Tests, Medications) | Reduces out-of-pocket costs on extra treatments. | Great for families or those managing ongoing health issues. |
No Surprise Billing | Transparent pricing helps you budget ahead of time. | Anyone who wants predictable medical costs. |
Lower Cost Compared to Insurance Premiums | Many plans are $30 – $75 per month, much cheaper than full insurance. | Those who canโt afford traditional insurance but still need urgent care. |
๐ก Pro Tip: Look into NextCare, FastMed, or MedExpress membership plans if you visit urgent care several times a year.
Comment 12: “Are there nonprofit or government programs that help pay for urgent care if I donโt have insurance?”
Yes! Several federal, state, and nonprofit programs help low-income or uninsured individuals get affordable medical care.
Program ๐๏ธ | What It Covers ๐ | Where to Find It ๐ |
---|---|---|
Federally Qualified Health Centers (FQHCs) | Provides low-cost or free urgent care based on income. | Find centers at HRSA.gov. |
State-Funded Health Clinics | Many states have free or sliding-scale clinics. | Search state health department websites. |
Charity Care Programs | Some hospitals and clinics offer assistance for those in financial need. | Ask local hospitals if they have charity programs. |
Prescription Assistance (GoodRx, NeedyMeds, RxAssist) | Discounts and free medication programs. | Use GoodRx.com or local pharmacy discount programs. |
๐ก Pro Tip: If you qualify for low-income medical programs, you can reduce urgent care bills significantly or even get care for free.
Comment 13: “What happens if I canโt afford a medication prescribed at urgent care?”
Prescription costs can be overwhelming, but there are several ways to get medications at lower prices or even for free.
Strategy ๐ | How It Reduces Costs ๐ต | Where to Find It ๐ |
---|---|---|
Ask for Generic Alternatives | Generics cost 80-90% less than brand-name drugs. | Pharmacies like Walmart, Costco, and Kroger offer $4 generics. |
Use Prescription Discount Cards | Programs like GoodRx slash medication costs by up to 80%. | Available at most major pharmacy chains. |
Check Patient Assistance Programs | Some drug manufacturers offer free or reduced-cost medications. | Programs like RxAssist & NeedyMeds help patients apply. |
Use a Low-Cost Pharmacy | Warehouse stores often sell prescriptions at the lowest price. | Costco and Samโs Club donโt require memberships for prescriptions. |
๐ก Pro Tip: Always compare prices at multiple pharmaciesโone store may charge double the price for the same medication.
Comment 14: “Why do urgent care centers sometimes charge more than advertised online?”
While many urgent care facilities list standard visit prices on their websites, the final bill can end up being higher due to additional services or regional pricing adjustments. Several key reasons contribute to these discrepancies:
Reason for Extra Charges ๐ฐ | Why It Happens ๐ค | How to Avoid Unexpected Costs ๐ก |
---|---|---|
Unlisted Fees for Extra Services | Online prices usually cover only the basic consultation, not X-rays, lab work, or treatments. | Ask for a detailed cost breakdown before agreeing to any services. |
Pricing Variability by Location | Costs differ between high-cost cities (New York, LA) and smaller towns. | Check multiple locations nearby for the lowest pricing. |
Additional Testing or Procedures | Doctors may order tests, wound care, or injections, increasing costs. | Ask if extra tests are truly necessary before agreeing. |
Weekend, Evening, or Holiday Fees | Some urgent care centers increase rates during high-demand hours. | If possible, visit on a weekday before noon for standard pricing. |
๐ก Pro Tip: Before receiving treatment, ask for a cost estimate in writingโthis makes it easier to dispute unexpected charges later.
Comment 15: “Can urgent care prescribe antibiotics or other medications on-site?”
Yes! Most urgent care centers can diagnose infections and write prescriptions for common medications, saving you a trip to a primary care doctor. However, not all clinics dispense medications directly on-siteโthis varies by state and facility.
Medication Type ๐ | Can Urgent Care Prescribe? โ /โ | Where to Fill It ๐ |
---|---|---|
Antibiotics (Amoxicillin, Azithromycin, etc.) | โ Yes | Any pharmacy or in-clinic dispensary (if available) |
Pain Relievers (Ibuprofen, Acetaminophen, Naproxen) | โ Yes | Available over-the-counter at pharmacies |
Steroids (Prednisone, Cortisone) | โ Yes | Prescription required, filled at a pharmacy |
Controlled Substances (Opioids, ADHD Medications, Anxiety Medications) | โ No | Urgent care cannot prescribe controlled drugs |
๐ก Pro Tip: Some urgent care centers have in-house pharmacies where you can pick up medications immediately after your visitโcheck ahead to see if this is an option.
Comment 16: “I have a chronic condition. Should I go to urgent care or a primary care doctor?”
Urgent care is ideal for sudden, short-term issues, but chronic conditions require ongoing management through a primary care provider.
Condition ๐ | Urgent Care ๐ฅ | Primary Care Doctor ๐จโโ๏ธ |
---|---|---|
Flu, Cold, COVID-19 Symptoms | โ Best choice | โ No need unless symptoms persist |
Minor Injuries (Sprains, Minor Cuts, Burns) | โ Fast treatment | โ Not necessary unless injury worsens |
Diabetes, Hypertension, or Asthma Management | โ No long-term care | โ Best for ongoing management |
Prescription Refills (Non-Controlled Medications) | โ Short-term supply | โ Ideal for long-term prescriptions |
Annual Physical Exams & Preventive Care | โ Not available | โ Required for wellness monitoring |
๐ก Pro Tip: If you have a chronic condition and donโt have a primary care doctor, look into community health centersโthey offer low-cost ongoing care for uninsured patients.
Comment 17: “What happens if I canโt pay my urgent care bill in full?”
If you canโt pay the entire bill upfront, many urgent care centers offer payment solutions to help make healthcare costs more manageable.
Payment Option ๐ต | How It Helps ๐ฅ | Where to Ask ๐ |
---|---|---|
Payment Plans | Allows you to pay in installments over time. | Inquire before treatment if available. |
Sliding Scale Fees | Discounts applied based on income level. | Community clinics & non-profit urgent care centers. |
Medical Credit Cards (CareCredit, Wells Fargo Health Card) | Covers medical costs with deferred-interest plans. | Apply before the visit to check eligibility. |
Negotiated Discounts | Some facilities offer a lower rate for upfront cash payments. | Ask at independent urgent care centers. |
๐ก Pro Tip: If you’re struggling with payment, call the billing department immediatelyโthey may be willing to reduce charges or offer extended payment terms.
Comment 18: “Is urgent care covered by Medicaid or state health programs?”
Many urgent care centers accept Medicaid, but coverage rules vary by state. Some clinics may require a copay or only accept Medicaid for specific services.
Medicaid Coverage ๐๏ธ | Accepted at Urgent Care? โ /โ | Details ๐ |
---|---|---|
Routine Sick Visits (Cold, Flu, Minor Injuries) | โ Often Covered | Coverage depends on state Medicaid rules. |
X-Rays & Lab Tests | โ Sometimes | Some states require pre-authorization. |
Emergency Room Visits | โ Always Covered | ER visits are fully covered for emergencies. |
Specialist Referrals | โ Rarely | Typically requires a primary care provider referral. |
๐ก Pro Tip: Before visiting urgent care, call to confirm they accept Medicaid in your stateโcoverage policies differ by clinic and location.
Comment 19: “Are urgent care telehealth visits worth it compared to in-person visits?”
Telehealth visits can be a great alternative for certain medical concerns, especially if you want to avoid in-person costs. However, they arenโt suitable for all conditions.
Condition ๐ฑ | Telehealth Visit โ | In-Person Urgent Care Required ๐ |
---|---|---|
Cold, Flu, or COVID-19 Symptoms | โ Yes | โ No need for in-person care unless severe. |
Skin Rashes or Allergies | โ Yes | โ No need unless infected. |
Urinary Tract Infection (UTI) | โ Yes | โ No need unless symptoms worsen. |
Fractures, Cuts, or Sprains | โ No | โ Yesโrequires imaging or treatment. |
Severe Abdominal Pain or Chest Pain | โ No | โ Yesโpossible emergency situation. |
๐ก Pro Tip: Telehealth visits usually cost $50 – $100, making them a cheaper option for mild illnesses than in-person urgent care.
Comment 20: “I donโt have insurance. Are there government clinics that provide free or low-cost urgent care?”
Yes! Several federal and state-funded clinics offer low-cost or free urgent care services for uninsured individuals.
Free or Low-Cost Health Care Option ๐ฅ | What It Covers ๐ก | Where to Find It ๐ |
---|---|---|
Federally Qualified Health Centers (FQHCs) | Provides sliding scale urgent care based on income. | Search for FQHCs on HRSA.gov. |
Community Health Clinics | Offers low-cost medical visits, vaccinations, and screenings. | Check your local public health department. |
Planned Parenthood | Provides womenโs health services, STD testing, and birth control. | Visit PlannedParenthood.org for locations. |
State Health Departments | Some states have free walk-in urgent care clinics. | Search your stateโs Medicaid website. |
๐ก Pro Tip: If you canโt afford urgent care, contact a free clinic before visitingโthey may offer same-day walk-in appointments for essential medical needs.