Urgent Care vs. ER: How to Choose the Right Care | UCI Health’s Dr. Graham Stephenson Explains

When should you go to urgent care and when is the emergency room the right choice? UCI Health’s Dr. Graham Stephenson, Board‑Certified Emergency Physician and Medical Director of Urgent Care, joins Ryan Manno (iHeart / KOST 103.5) to break down the differences — and help you make the right call when it matters most. In this episode of Live Well with UCI Health, Dr. Stephenson covers:

• The biggest misconceptions around urgent care vs. ER
• What symptoms should always be treated as emergencies
• How urgent care can handle stitches, X‑rays, injuries, and more
• How insurance impacts your care options
• What to bring if you expect a long wait
• UCI Health’s growing network of emergency departments

Whether you’re a parent, caregiver, or someone who simply wants to be prepared, this conversation offers practical, actionable advice to help you navigate stressful medical situations with confidence.

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