Urgent Care Dermatologists: Do They Exist?

Urgent care is a medical service that’s between that of emergency (time-critical) and primary care. You’re probably familiar with urgent care centers. These are generally walk-in clinics that offer a range of treatments, such as minor injuries and illnesses, and are open for longer hours than regular doctor’s offices. 

But what about urgent care dermatologists? Do they exist or is there even such a thing? The answer isn’t completely straightforward, so let’s take a look at the options.

How to See a Dermatologist on an Urgent Care Basis

• What would be an urgent reason to see a skin doctor?
• How to access urgent dermatological care

What would be an urgent reason to see a skin doctor?

Before we define what might be an urgent reason to see a dermatologist, let’s quickly look at what warrants immediate, emergency care.

Examples include:

• A sudden skin rash accompanied by any swelling of the lips or face and/or any problems with breathing. These are typical symptoms of an anaphylactic reaction and require emergency treatment with adrenaline and steroids.
• A rash that covers a significant area of the body (over 10%).
• A rash accompanied by signs of infection, such as a high or exceptionally low temperature, general feelings of malaise, muscle aches, photophobia, a stiff neck, etc.

Such issues need immediate treatment. If getting to care isn’t possible, then call 911 for an ambulance.

Urgent care, on the other hand, isn’t potentially life-threatening, at least in the short term. Examples of when you might seek help from an urgent care dermatologist include:

• A mole that has changed shape, size, or color, is bleeding, or develops a crust: This should be assessed as soon as possible by a dermatologist and, if necessary, tested for cancerous cells.
• Simple rashes: Without any obvious underlying cause and that are limited in size (under 10% of the body).
• An injury to the skin that isn’t showing signs of healing after a few days: This would include worsening redness, increased swelling, increasing pain, or oozing pus or fluid.
• Worsening eczema: Especially relevant in children, who might scratch at the lesions, causing further tissue injury.
• Significant itching, with or without a visible rash: Conditions, such as impetigo, ringworm, and shingles, need to be diagnosed and prompt treatment instigated to ensure a speedy recovery. 

How to access urgent dermatological care

Urgent dermatological care can be found in the following locations: 

• The already-mentioned urgent care centers: While they may not have a dermatologist on call, clinicians can refer you to one if necessary.
• Dermatology clinics: This is the favored approach. Going straight to an expert bypasses any potential delays if further appointments are needed.
• A virtual consultation: Many dermatologists and physicians offer this. The wonder of video calling means the clinician can see the problem and, if needed, arrange a face-to-face consultation. Simple problems can be diagnosed, and a treatment plan put in place. This includes prescribing any necessary medication and is one of the most convenient methods if you’re some distance from other dermatology care options.

Urgent Care Dermatologists: They Do Exist at Bayou City Dermatology

We know that there are times when our patients require urgent assessment and treatment. While we’re not an emergency clinic, we do offer short-notice appointments when possible. Our friendly, efficient service includes the option to speak to a dermatologist to assess if a skin issue can wait a little, or whether we should see you in person as soon as possible. Naturally, in an emergency you should always head straight to the nearest ED, such as in the case of a non-blanching rash, which could be a symptom of meningitis.

Discover more about us at https://www.bayoucitydermatology.com/ and call our friendly team to arrange an appointment.