We know that illnesses aren’t planned, and it can be challenging to get an appointment at the last minute. Our Same Day Sick Visits can help when those unexpected illnesses arrive.

We are glad to offer same-day appointments for all our established patients in Murfreesboro, TN.

If you feel sick or have an urgent problem, you can call us for an urgent appointment or visit our doctor’s office directly.

However, these appointments aren’t for every type of problem. They are only for those minor yet urgent problems. Here are some examples of the types of problems we can treat during our Same Day Sick Visits:

• Colds and coughs
• Fever
• Flu
• Headaches and migraines
• Sprains and strains
• Upper respiratory conditions (bronchitis, sinus infections)
• Urinary tract infections
• Other common illnesses

We understand, as a parent, a sick child is always a concern. Whether it is your toddler or teenager, Highland Family Medicine is here to help your child get well quickly.

We offer extended hours and a nurse call line for convenience to parents. We also offer a sick child waiting room area. Whether it is a stomach bug, flu, a cut that needs sutures, or the common cold, we will provide the best, holistic medical care for your child to allow them to return home and to school healthy and well.

Common pediatric sickness symptoms are:

• Sore throat
• Cough
• Diarrhea
• Headache
• Fever
• Abdominal pain
• Chest pain
• Continuous crying
• Cuts, scrapes, or bruises
• Decreased intake of fluid (dehydration)
• Diaper rash
• Ear congestion and discharge
• Swollen or irritated eyes
• Heat rash
• Lack of appetite (not eating or taking breast milk)
• Irregular-looking urine or stool
• Vomiting

• Monday | 8 Am – 5 Pm
• Tuesday | 8 Am – 5 Pm
• Wednesday | 8 Am – 5 Pm
• Thursday | 8 Am – 5 Pm
• Friday | 8 Am – 5 Pm
• Saturday | Closed
• Sunday | Closed

Sometimes, we may feel confused about whether our situation calls for a trip to the ER (emergency room) or a visit to Dr. Helton or any doctor’s office. That’s normal; that’s why we’ve written a quick guide to help you know which option you should choose.

A Sick Visit to Your Doctor
When it comes to any non-emergency situation, you should always visit a doctor instead of an ER. Non-emergencies mean a cold, flu, earache, body aches, or anything mentioned above where the patient can still function or visit the doctor without assistance (except for kids and seniors).

A Visit to the ER
Now, the only time we think going to the ER is a good idea for non-emergency situations is when you’re experiencing severe symptoms during the night when there are no clinics or doctor’s offices available. The best time to visit the ER is when you or a loved one is in excruciating pain, having difficulty breathing, having a huge wound that requires immediate care, having broken extremities, or having any life-and-death situation.

Both ER and a doctor’s office can provide effective care. The difference is that the ER is complete and can respond to emergencies anytime. However, a trip to the ER can also be significantly more expensive.