Feeling Sick? Here’s When to See a Doctor

Each year, millions of people visit a doctor’s office. In fact, the CDC reports that around 83% of adults in the U.S. make at least one trip to the doctor every year for symptoms of illness. However, the rising cost of healthcare leads many people to skip necessary sick visits. 

One study found that 38% of people delay or avoid medical treatment due to costs. 

However, this decision can have serious consequences. Untreated conditions can worsen and require more intensive care, which can cost more than a sick visit or preventative care. 

Understanding the importance of sick visits is important for making informed decisions about your health. Read on to learn more about when to see a doctor if you’re feeling under the weather — and where to find the best low-cost healthcare in Southern California.

What is a Sick Visit? 

A sick visit is a medical appointment specifically scheduled to address new or sudden health concerns, such as symptoms of a cold, flu, COVID-19, or an infection. Unlike routine check-ups or preventive care visits, sick visits focus on diagnosing and treating immediate health issues that require prompt attention. These appointments are important for managing illnesses before they worsen into more serious conditions. 

What to Expect at Your Sick Visit

When you arrive for your sick visit, you can expect a thorough and focused evaluation of your current health concerns. The process typically begins with a brief check-in where you'll provide your medical history and describe your symptoms. A nurse or medical assistant may take your vital signs, such as temperature, blood pressure, and heart rate. 

Then, you'll meet with a healthcare provider, who will ask detailed questions about your symptoms, perform a physical examination, and possibly order diagnostic tests like blood work or imaging like an X-ray. 

Based on your symptoms and testing, the provider will diagnose your condition and recommend a treatment plan, which may include:

• Medications like antibiotics or antiviral medication
• Lifestyle adjustments like using a humidifier or increasing your fluid intake
• Follow-up appointments to monitor your healing

Throughout the visit, you can ask questions and discuss any concerns to ensure you fully understand your diagnosis and treatment options.

When Should I Schedule a Sick Visit? 

Knowing when to schedule a sick visit can help you get the medical care you need before your illness worsens. Here are some symptoms that indicate the need to see a doctor:

• Fever, pain, or tiredness that is severe or gets worse over time
• Difficulty breathing, persistent coughing, or feeling short of breath
• Signs of infection — such as a sore throat, ear pain, or sinus pressure
• Pain or burning when using the bathroom
• Ongoing nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, or abdominal pain

Scheduling a sick visit when you experience any of these symptoms can help you get the necessary treatment for a fast recovery and help prevent complications like a deeper infection or strain on the heart and lungs. 

Where to Find the Best Low-Cost Medical Clinic in Woodland Hills, CA

Southern California Medical Center provides low-cost medical care, including affordable sick visits for adults and children, at six convenient locations in Southern California. 

Our experienced healthcare providers are dedicated to providing high-quality medical services for uninsured and low-income individuals in Southern California — ensuring all SoCal residents can access the healthcare they need, including sick visits.  

We also provide comprehensive well-child visits, preventative medicine, appointments for routine health concerns, dental visits, sports physicals, and immunizations. Don’t have a car? We provide transportation to and from the doctor — just call us! 

Southern California Medical Center is proud to serve the SoCal community with six convenient locations across Southern California:

1. Affordable Doctor in Van Nuys: 14550 Haynes St. Van Nuys, CA 91411

2. Affordable Doctor in Pomona: 502 W. Holt Ave. Pomona, CA 91768

3. Affordable Doctor in Pico Rivera: 8825 Whittier Blvd. Pico Rivera, CA 90660

4. Affordable Doctor in Long Beach: 1627 E. Anaheim St., Long Beach, CA 90813

5. Affordable Doctor in El Monte: 12100 Valley Blvd. El Monte, CA 91732

6. Affordable Doctor in Woodland Hills: 20011 Ventura Blvd. Suite 1002, Woodland Hills, CA, 91364

Whether it is you or your child who is feeling sick, SCMC is here for you! Each of our locations is staffed with adult and pediatric providers who are fluent in English, Spanish, Khmer, Korean, Farsi, Hindi, Tagalog, and Armenian. 

Ready to schedule a sick visit at our affordable medical clinic in Woodland Hills?