When you or a loved one is feeling unwell outside of normal doctor’s office hours, the decision on where to seek medical attention can be a stressful one. Often, the first thought is to head to the emergency room (ER). However, for many non-life-threatening conditions, an after-hours care clinic is a better choice. Docs on Call, a division of Primary Care Partners, is here for your after-hours care needs when your main healthcare provider can’t see you right away.

How is Docs on Call a better choice than the ER for non-emergencies?

Shorter Wait Times

One of the most significant drawbacks of the ER is the often extremely long wait times. Hospitals are typically busy, and when patients arrive with non-emergency conditions, they may have to wait hours to see a doctor. Emergency rooms prioritize patients based on the severity of their condition, meaning those with less urgent needs could be left waiting for a long time.

At Docs on Call you’ll typically experience much shorter wait times. Appointments are required, but you can call (970) 255-1576 as early as 8:00am the same day to make your appointment. If you’re dealing with a minor injury, illness, or need a quick consultation, the convenience and speed of an after-hours clinic can be a lifesaver.

Lower Costs

Emergency room visits come with hefty bills, even for minor issues. Emergency care is typically more expensive due to the resources, staffing, and equipment necessary to manage severe and life-threatening conditions. On top of that, you may find yourself paying for unnecessary tests or services that are not relevant to your condition.

Docs on Call offers a more affordable option for non-emergency medical needs. Insurance may cover these visits at a more affordable rate, and for those without insurance, the out-of-pocket costs are usually far less than what you’d pay at an ER. A visit to Docs on Call is typically about 75% less of the cost of an emergency room visit.

Convenient Hours

We know that injuries and illnesses often don’t happen at convenient times. That’s why Docs on Call offers convenient office hours with extended evening, weekend, and holiday hours, so you can receive care at a time that works best for your schedule.

Docs on Call Hours

Monday-Friday: 1:00pm-10:00pm

Saturday: 8:00am-10:00pm

Sunday: 8:00am – 9:00pm

2024 Holiday Hours

Christmas Eve: 12:00pm-6:00pm

Christmas Day: 9:00am–5:00pm

New Years Eve: 1:00pm-8:00pm

New Year’s Day: 9:00am-9:00pm

When should I go to Docs on Call?

Knowing when to go to an after-hours clinic or the ER can be confusing, especially when you’re not feeling well. The most important thing is to get the right care from the right place. If you are experiencing a life or limb-threatening situation, please dial 911 or proceed to the nearest emergency room. Some examples of conditions warrant an emergency room visit include but are not limited to:

  • Chest pain
  • Heart attack symptoms
  • Shortness of breath
  • Trauma or serious head injury
  • Uncontrollable bleeding
  • Stroke symptoms
  • Unconsciousness
  • Eye injury
  • Seizures
  • Overdose or poisoning

If you are unsure if you need the ER or Docs on Call, please call our office at (970) 255-1576 and our medical staff can point you in the right direction.

Follow-Up Care

After your visit with Docs on Call, you can schedule your visit for follow-up care with your Primary Care Partners provider. If you don’t have a provider already, please check with our office to see which PCP division is currently taking on new patients.

Choosing Docs on Call over the emergency room makes sense for many non-emergency situations. From shorter wait times and more affordable prices to quality care for common conditions, we offer a convenient and effective solution for many health concerns.

Docs on Call is located at 3150 N 12th Street in Grand Junction. Appointments can be scheduled any day of the week – even if you are not already a Primary Care Partners patient.

Call (970) 255-1576 as early as 8:00am to schedule your same-day appointment.

If you are facing a life-threatening condition, please call 911 or proceed to the nearest emergency room.