Q :  I'm not sure when I should visit the emergency room, or an urgent care center. How do I know when to go, or when to just visit my doctor's office?

A:Urgent care centers are wonderful if you have a minor medical emergency, such as a laceration, that can't wait until your doctor is in. But if you've got a cold or ongoing problem that can be addressed through your regular physician, those things should probably wait.

On the other hand, if you are experiencing chest or severe abdominal pain, go straight to the emergency room. You could actually delay your care by going to an urgent care center because if it's serious, they're going to transfer you to an emergency room anyway.