
Urgent care vs. the ER: How to know where to go
June 11, 2026
Visit the ER for serious illness or injuries when you need emergency care. Visit urgent care for minor injuries or illnesses that need same-day care.

Schedule preventive care and screenings that are right for you based on your age, family history and risk factors
Regular preventive health care and screenings may help find cancer and other health concerns early, when they are most treatable and when more treatment options are available. At Ascension St. John, we provide convenient diagnostic imaging tests, including walk-in mammograms, colonoscopies, low-dose CT lung scans and many other health screenings.
Be sure to check with your insurance provider about your coverage for screenings and preventive care. Many of our doctors offer convenient online scheduling so you can select a day and time that’s right for you.
Genetic counselors at Ascension St. John also provide genetic testing and counseling. If you’re at high risk or have a family history of cancer, genetic testing and counseling can help you and your doctor better understand your risk for certain cancers. By working with you, our care team creates a personalized care plan that’s right for you.
If you need additional care, including more advanced treatment options, you’re connected to compassionate care teams and specialists. They may include radiation oncologists, medical oncologists, surgeons and physical therapists. Your care team will take the time to answer your questions and explain your results, follow-up care and any procedures. We’ll listen to your concerns and work with you to determine the right care plan for you.
Check with your insurance provider to understand your coverage before scheduling. Low-dose CT screening may be covered by various insurance plans as well as Medicare for those who meet certain high-risk criteria. If you have Medicare Part B and meet certain qualifications, your screening may be covered. But you will need a referral from your doctor.
Regular Pap tests are recommended for women beginning at age 20 and into your 50s, or as recommended by your doctor.
TALK TO A PRIMARY CARE PROVIDER ABOUT CERVICAL CANCER SCREENINGRegular colon screening may help find polyps and cancer early. It’s recommended that men and women get their first colonoscopy at age 45. You may need to get a colonoscopy earlier if you have a personal or family history of polyps or colon cancer, or if you have symptoms.
TALK TO A PRIMARY CARE PROVIDER ABOUT A COLONOSCOPY
SCHEDULE A COLONOSCOPYA lung screening helps you and your doctor better understand your lung health. A low-dose CT lung scan may help find lung nodules and cancer, and it may help diagnose lung fibrosis, COPD and other breathing disorders. Talk with your doctor about whether a low-dose CT screening is right for you.
TALK TO A PRIMARY CARE PROVIDER ABOUT A CT SCANAnnual mammograms are recommended for women beginning at age 40. If you have a family history of breast cancer, ask your doctor if you should have a breast screening test before you turn 40.
TALK TO A PRIMARY CARE PROVIDERDoctors recommend that men at an increased risk for prostate cancer begin speaking to their doctor about PSA-based prostate cancer screening at age 40. Men who aren’t at an increased risk are recommended to start prostate cancer screenings at age 50.
TALK TO A PRIMARY CARE PROVIDER ABOUT PSA SCREENINGGenetic counselors at Ascension St. John also provide genetic testing and counseling. If you’re at high risk or have a family history of cancer, genetic testing and counseling can help you and your doctor better understand your risk for certain cancers. By working with you, our care team creates a personalized care plan that’s right for you.
If you need more care, including more advanced treatment options, you’re connected to a team of experienced specialists and care teams. These may include radiation oncologists, medical oncologists, surgeons and physical therapists. Your care team will take the time to explain your results, follow up, procedures and walk you through every step of your care journey. We’ll listen to your concerns and work with you to determine the appropriate care plan.
Check with your insurance provider to understand your coverage before scheduling. Low-dose CT screening may be covered by various insurance plans as well as Medicare for those who meet certain high-risk criteria. If you have Medicare Part B and meet certain qualifications, your screening may be covered. But you will need a referral from your doctor.
When you’re facing a new cancer diagnosis or are deciding on a surgical or therapeutic treatment plan, there’s a lot to think about. Our cancer specialists in Oklahoma can provide a second opinion, based on our experience and as part of a national team.
Before your appointment, check with your insurance company to find out if a second opinion is covered. We can request your medical records on your behalf, so they can be shared with your care team before your arrival.
If you are experiencing a life-threatening emergency, go directly to the ER or call 911.
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