When your child is sick or needs care, you want answers fast. But sometimes it’s not clear whether you should schedule a Primary Care visit or head to Urgent Care. Both are important, but they serve different purposes. Here’s what every parent should know.
What Is Primary Care?
UCFK Primary Care is your child’s medical home — the place for ongoing, comprehensive health care. A primary care provider (PCP) knows your child’s history, helps track growth and development, and works with you to prevent illness before it starts.
Primary Care at UCFK includes:
- Well-child visits and yearly check-ups
- Vaccination guidance and preventative screenings
- Management of chronic conditions (like asthma or allergies)
- Guidance on nutrition, growth, and development
- A trusted team who knows your child’s health journey
What Is Urgent Care?
Urgent care is for when your child needs immediate, same-day treatment for a minor illness or injury that can’t wait for a scheduled visit. It bridges the gap between your PCP and the ER.
Urgent Care at UCFK includes:
- Fever and common cold care
- Flu, strep, and COVID rapid testing
- Ear infections and sore throats
- Minor cuts, sprains, or injuries from sports/play
- Allergic reactions, rashes, or stomach bugs
- X-rays and on-site labs for quick answers
How Do I Decide?
- Choose Primary Care if… it’s a routine check-up, a chronic condition, or guidance on long-term health.
- Choose Urgent Care if… it’s an illness or injury that needs same-day attention but isn’t life-threatening.
- Go to the ER if… it’s a true emergency like trouble breathing, severe injuries, or head trauma.
Why Both Matter
Having access to both Primary Care and Urgent Care means your family is always covered. UCFK Primary Care builds the foundation for your child’s long-term health, while urgent care is here when the unexpected happens. Together, they make sure your child gets the right care at the right time — all at one medical home.💙 UCFK Primary Care is available at our DFW and Houston clinics (Austin coming soon!). Click here to request your appointment today!
🧡 UCFK Urgent Care is available every day, including late nights, weekends, and holidays at 23 convenient locations across Austin, Dallas-Fort Worth, and Houston. Click here to find your nearest location. Walk-ins always welcome or book ahead and skip the line.
👉 Whether it’s a scheduled visit or a same-day need, UCFK is here to care for your child every step of the way.
FAQ
How do I know if I should go to Primary Care or Urgent Care?
Use Primary Care for routine check-ups, preventative care, and ongoing health needs. Use Urgent Care for same-day treatment of sudden illnesses or injuries that aren’t life-threatening.
Does UCFK offer both services?
Yes! UCFK offers both Primary Care and Urgent Care, so your child always has the right care at the right time.
Where is Primary Care by UCFK available?
Primary Care is currently offered at our DFW and Houston clinics, with Austin locations coming soon.
Can I walk into a Primary Care clinic without an appointment?
Primary Care visits are typically scheduled in advance (click here to schedule). For urgent needs, UCFK clinics welcome walk-ins 7 days a week.
When should I go to the ER instead?
Go to the emergency room if your child is experiencing severe symptoms such as difficulty breathing, major injuries, head trauma, or other life-threatening concerns.
At a Glance
Primary Care
🏡 Your child’s medical home
👩⚕️ Well-child check-ups & yearly visits
💉 Vaccination guidance & preventative screenings
🤧 Ongoing management of chronic conditions
🥗 Guidance on nutrition, growth & development
Urgent Care
⚡ Immediate care for minor illnesses & injuries
🧪 On-site labs & X-rays for quick answers
🤒 Cold, flu, strep & fever care
🤕 Sports injuries, cuts & minor sprains
🕒 Walk-in, after-hours & weekend access
