“Patients sometimes think of the Emergency Department (ED) first, but there are other convenient options,” said Mark Lodes, MD, vice president and chief medical officer for population health at Froedtert & MCW. “EDs are best utilized for severe or potentially life-threatening illnesses and injuries. In many circumstances, influenza and other respiratory illnesses present with mild or moderate symptoms. In those cases, the ED is probably not the best option. Occasionally, though, we do see severe cases of the flu. If potentially life-threatening signs or symptoms appear, call 911 and get to the ED. This is particularly of concern for people with chronic illnesses, especially pulmonary or cardiac conditions.”
For most mild to moderate cases of flu, faster, more convenient care is available.
“Within the Froedtert & MCW health network, we offer several convenient care options, including FastCare®, Urgent Care and primary care physicians,” Dr. Lodes said. “Patients can even be seen by webcam in the comfort of their home through our Virtual Clinic, where board-certified family medicine doctors and clinicians are always available.
To avoid the flu, wash your hands often, avoid touching your face and stay out of crowds. And if you haven’t already, get a flu shot. It’s the best way to protect yourself and others. Even if you develop the flu, your symptoms are likely to be milder if you’ve had a flu shot.
For fast, accurate flu treatment, contact Froedtert & MCW:
- Virtual Clinic — Log on to speak with a board-certified family medicine doctor or clinician via webcam for $49.
- Same-Day Care — Find locations and wait times. Flu shots available.
- Primary Care Doctor or Clinician — Contact your primary care doctor or clinician for an appointment. Flu shots available. Don't have a primary care doctor or clinician ? We can help you find one.
Learn More About Same-Day, Walk-In and Urgent Care
