Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Find out below how easy and convenient it is to visit Inova Urgent Care.

What is an urgent care center?

Urgent care allows you to see a provider without an appointment. Urgent care is for accidents and illnesses that require a medical provider's attention, but not a trip to the emergency room. Reasons to for urgent care might include a sore throat, cough, fever, rash, minor injury, or headache, as well as vomiting, flu-like symptoms, and respiratory difficulties associated with asthma and allergies. You can also use urgent care for routine matters such as physicals and vaccinations.

What’s the difference between urgent care and the emergency room?

The emergency room treats injuries that are serious or that may be life-threatening. The conditions and injuries below should be evaluated and treated in an emergency room:

• Severe bleeding due to injury or trauma
• Severe burns
• Chest pain
• Electrical shock
• Fractures that are open or angulated

Call 911 immediately if you have a medical emergency.

Can I check in online?

Yes, you may check in online.

How long will I wait to see a provider?

Thanks to processes that are streamlined by emergency medicine experts, most visits are relatively short. Because we see patients on a first-come, first-served basis, we can’t predict exactly how long you may wait. Patients with severe breathing problems, who are bleeding, or who may have life-threatening medical conditions will always be treated first.

Can I request a visit with a specific provider?

As an urgent care facility, we do not schedule office visits with individual physicians. When you visit us you will see the first available provider on staff at that time. The entire process is designed to be convenient and consistent.

What are your staff’s qualifications?

Our providers are board certified in their respective specialties and are trained in urgent care and pediatrics. Our centers are part of the Inova Health System, including the network of hospitals and extensive outpatient facilities. As an Inova Urgent Care patient, you have access to Inova's full range of specialized providers and services.

How much will my visit cost?

Fees are about the same as a visit to your regular provider. While your insurance co-pay may be higher than a regular office visit, it’s usually lower than the co-pay for a visit to the emergency room. The total charges will depend on your insurance provider’s policy regarding urgent care and the level of care provided.

We work with all the major insurance providers. If you have a question regarding coverage, please call our office for a complete, up-to-date list of providers. For those with insurance, a co-pay will be collected at time of service, along with any charges for medications dispensed on-site. Payment is required at the time of service.

If we do not accept your particular insurance plan, we will provide you with a receipt for your insurance provider that you can submit for reimbursement.

For those without insurance, a fee schedule is available. Our fees are competitive with other local healthcare providers, and you can benefit from our prompt pay discount. We will also work with you to discuss treatment options and cost-saving measures. Payment is required at time of service. We accept cash, personal checks and major credit cards.