Acute Care

Acute Care Overview

Acute care is a crucial part of the health care system, providing prompt medical attention and immediate treatment for severe injuries or illnesses when patients need it most. Understanding acute care and services offered at Hattiesburg Clinic can help individuals make informed decisions during medical emergencies.

At Hattiesburg Clinic, our acute care services are designed to provide timely, comprehensive care for sudden health concerns, helping you get back to feeling your best as quickly as possible. Our experienced providers are equipped to handle a wide range of acute conditions, including infections, minor injuries, sudden fevers, severe coughs, stomach issues and more. We focus on prompt evaluation, accurate diagnosis and effective treatment whether it is prescribing medication, performing minor procedures or guiding you to the appropriate specialist, if needed.

What is Acute Care?

Acute care refers to the short-term, immediate medical treatment for sudden or severe illnesses, injuries or health conditions that require prompt attention. Unlike chronic care, which focuses on managing long-term health conditions over time, acute care is about diagnosing and treating issues that arise unexpectedly. The goal of acute care is to stabilize your condition, relieve symptoms and prevent complications while ensuring follow-up care as needed.

What Conditions Are Considered Acute Care?

Acute care addresses sudden or severe health issues that require prompt attention. This can include conditions such as:

Infections like flu or pneumonia
Severe pain, such as abdominal or back pain
Shortness of breath or asthma flare-ups
Sprains, minor fractures or cuts
Stomach issues, such as nausea or vomiting
Sudden high fever

If your symptoms appear suddenly and interfere with your daily life, acute care services can help you get relief quickly.

How is acute care different emergency care?

Acute care is typically provided by your primary care provider or family medicine team for immediate but non-life-threatening health concerns. Emergency care is reserved for life-threatening conditions, such as chest pain, severe trauma or stroke.

Do I need an appointment, or can I walk in?

Many acute care needs can be addressed with same-day appointments, allowing you to be seen quickly. Depending on your provider’s schedule, some locations may offer same day appointments for urgent situations. Calling ahead is always best to confirm availability and reduce your wait time.

Are lab tests, imaging or procedures available during acute care visits?

Yes, many acute care visits include on-site labs, diagnostic imaging and minor procedures. Having these services available in one location allows for quicker diagnosis and treatment, so you do not have to wait for multiple appointments.

Can acute care handle minor injuries, like sprains or cuts, or just illnesses?

Acute care is designed to manage both sudden illnesses and minor injuries. Providers can evaluate and treat sprains, minor fractures, cuts, burns and other non-life-threatening injuries. For more severe injuries or emergencies, you may be referred to the appropriate specialist or emergency department.

Why Choose Hattiesburg Clinic for Acute Care

When unexpected health issues arise, you need care that is fast, reliable and personalized. Our team is committed to coordinating your care, whether that means fast treatment, diagnostic testing or follow-up support, so nothing falls through the cracks. Choosing Hattiesburg Clinic means choosing a provider who can offer compassionate, individualized care in a familiar setting. With convenient locations across Mississippi, access to advanced technology, and a focus on keeping you healthy and comfortable, our goal is to make managing acute health issues easier and less stressful.