Spectrum Health Reminds Community to Utilize Alternative Same Day Health Care Services for Cold and Flu

GRAND RAPIDS, Mich., Dec. 7, 2021—Due to the rapid increase of patients with COVID-19 and other serious health conditions across West Michigan, Spectrum Health’s emergency rooms and Urgent Care centers are experiencing significantly higher volumes.

To help minimize the added strain on these important services and to treat patients faster, Spectrum Health is urging the community to utilize other care options for non-emergency health issues such as cough, sore throat, ear pain and mild fever. More information about the differences between flu, cold & COVID-19 symptoms, as well as same day care options, can be found here.

Additional health care options that will help individuals get the non-emergency care they need quickly and at a lower cost include:

Virtual Urgent Care

Virtual urgent care is on-demand, 24/7 and can assist those with flu or cold symptoms in as little as 10 minutes or less in most cases, right from home.

Walk-In Clinics

For in-person care, walk-in clinics are available with evening and weekend hours.

Primary Care Offices

Many Spectrum Health primary care offices are offering more same-day appointments, and evening and weekend hours. Every office has 24/7 support for questions, concerns and prescription refills. In-person, virtual and e-visits are available, too.

For COVID-19 testing options, visit Spectrum Health’s COVID-19 Resource Center for locations.

In cases where emergency care is needed, such as difficulty breathing, chest pain and trauma, individuals should continue to access Spectrum Health emergency departments or call 911.

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People are at the heart of everything we do, and the inspiration for our long and continuing legacy of strong community partnerships, philanthropy and transparency. Our award-winning team improves health, inspires hope and saves lives across 13 counties in West Michigan. We bring together 11 hospitals—including Spectrum Health Helen DeVos Children’s Hospital, with expert care from 350+ pediatric specialists in 70+ specialties and programs—three rehabilitation and nursing centers, 120 outpatient sites and telehealth services. We are proud to work with 4,000 physicians and advanced practice providers, including Spectrum Health Medical Group, one of the largest and most comprehensive multispecialty physician groups in West Michigan.

Contact:
Sarina Gleason
Media Relations
Phone: 517.256.5618
Email: sarina.gleason@corewellhealth.org