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When to Take Your Child to the ER
vs. Call a Doctor
Make the right call fast — and potentially save $1,000+ by avoiding an unnecessary ER visit.
By Absolute Care Pediatrics · June 2026 · 5 min read
When your child is sick or hurt, your first instinct may be to rush to the emergency room. But the ER is designed for life-threatening emergencies — and the average ER visit costs $500 to $3,000 or more. For most childhood illnesses, a same-day telehealth visit or urgent care appointment is faster, cheaper, and just as effective.
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- Ear infection or ear pain
- Sinus infection
- Strep throat
- UTI symptoms
- Pink eye
- Mild to moderate fever (under 104°F)
- Cough or congestion
- Rash or hives (not severe)
- Vomiting or diarrhea (mild)
- Mild asthma symptoms
- Eczema flare
- Sore throat
Virtual visit: $29.99 · Free for GA Medicaid
Go to the ER or Call 911
- Difficulty breathing or blue lips
- Seizures
- Unresponsive or limp
- Severe allergic reaction (throat swelling)
- Fever in newborn under 3 months
- Severe head injury or loss of consciousness
- Suspected poisoning or overdose
- Broken bone or deep wound
- Chest pain
- Severe abdominal pain
- Stiff neck with fever
- Sudden vision changes
Call 911 or go to the nearest ER immediately
The Cost Difference Is Significant
| Option | Avg. Cost | Wait Time |
|---|---|---|
| Absolute Care Telehealth | $29.99 | Same day, no wait |
| Urgent Care | $150–$300 | 1–3 hours |
| Emergency Room | $500–$3,000+ | 2–6+ hours |
Fever: When Is It an Emergency?
Fever is one of the most common reasons parents rush to the ER — but most fevers in children are not emergencies.
- Fever in a baby under 3 months → Go to the ER immediately
- Fever over 104°F that does not come down with medication → Call us or go to urgent care
- Fever with stiff neck, rash, or difficulty breathing → Go to the ER
- Fever under 104°F with other cold/flu symptoms → Book a telehealth visit
Not Sure? Book a Same-Day Visit.
Our pediatric providers will assess your child and tell you exactly what level of care is needed. $29.99 — free for GA Medicaid.
Book a Visit Now