CareFull MD's Guidance On When To Go To The ER Versus When To Go To Urgent Care

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Exam Rooms at CareFull MD’s Urgent Care.
Photo Credit: Katie Hellmuth

When you think of CareFull MD’s Urgent Care, you think immediate access to finding relief from symptoms. Urgent care, however, is different from the Emergency Room, which is attached to a hospital with more specialist and treatment options.

Things to think about before deciding between Urgent Care and the ER

Ask yourself right away about the severity of your symptoms. If you are having severe issues, you may want to consider going to the ER, which is connected to a hospital, which has more services, like a CT Scan and MRI. Urgent Care centers can usually handle X-rays, stitches, minor fractures, infections, and basic lab work. Urgent Care can also make referrals to specialists for further treatment once your symptoms are diagnosed.

Severity of Symptoms:

  • Chest pain

  • Trouble breathing

  • Stroke symptoms

  • Severe bleeding

  • Loss of consciousness usually require the ER

  • Time-sensitive conditions

  • Possible heart attack

  • Stroke

  • Appendicitis (severe pain in the lower abdomen, where it’s hard to talk or move)

  • Severe allergic reactions (trouble breathing, worsening symptoms by the moment)

  • Head injuries should not wait

Availability of Services

CareFull MD’s Exam Room at the end of the hall.
Photo Credit: Katie Hellmuth

Urgent Care explains the concern. If you come in to CareFull MD, their practitioner may tell you why the ER is recommended. For example: you may need a CT Scan, have a possible blood clot, or are experiencing dehydration requiring IV treatment. You may also need a cardiac evaluation depending on your symptoms. You can come to CareFull MD to check if you’re unsure of your symptoms.

Urgent Care stabilizes immediate issues if needed. You may be given oxygen, a nebulizer treatment for breathing issues, medications, bandaging, splinting, or basic treatment before transfer to the ER. At that point, transportation is determined. If the condition appears potentially dangerous, they may call an ambulance for you. If you are stable, they may tell you to go directly by private vehicle if someone can drive you.

Urgent Care may send to the ER your visit notes, vital signs, X-rays or lab results, and medication list that they determined while in their care. In some cases, CareFull MD’s Urgent Care calls ahead to the ER of your choice. However, this does not always mean you skip the waiting room or triage process. That is up to the Emergency Room and their schedule.

CareFull MD accepts most insurances including Medicaid and Medicare.

CareFull MD is a sponsor in A Little Beacon Blog’s Business Directory in the Health & Wellness section.

CareFull MD Donates Tampons and Pads To High School For Free Use By Students

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Recognizing the ever-present need for period products, CareFull MD, the walk-in urgent care in Beacon at 252 Main Street (next to Key Food), has donated tampons and pads to the Beacon High School students via the Beacon High School PTSO.

“We understand the need for kids to have period products available to them them at all times, despite personal budgets, remembering to pack ahead or unexpected arrivals of the cycle. That is why we at CareFull MD donated these products to the high school, to help make sure these supplies are available to students for free,” said CareFull MD.

Said Principal Corey Dwyer Ed. D. in a thank you note: “On behalf of Beacon High School, we want to express our sincere gratitude for your generous donation of feminine hygiene products to our school community. Your kindness makes a real difference in the lives of our students. Access to these essential items helps ensure that every student can attend school comfortably and confidently. You support reflects a commitment to the well-being of the young people in our community, and we are truly grateful.”

Is It Norovirus Or The Flu? Symptom Checking With CareFull MD, Beacon's Urgent Care

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Flu season came in strongly in Beacon, bringing with it multiple strains of the flu that cause different symptoms that can be are similar to Norovirus. While nirovirus tends to thrive in the spring, says Nurse Paulina Taylor of CareFull MD when ALBB asked her about symptoms and self-care tips for this article, some people in the community experienced Norovirus this winter season, which took them out of work and daily life for several days before they sought relief from an urgent care or doctor.

Nurse Paulina Taylor answers questions from a patient at CareFull MD’s location at 252 Main Street, Beacon NY.
Photo Credit: Katie Hellmuth

"It's important to come and get checked first,” Nurse Paulina urged. "For example, if a patient has cold symptoms like sore throat, nasal congestion, cough, it's best to rule out other infections like the flu at the time of their visit." Norovirus can cause vomiting and diarrhea within 12-48 hours of exposure, as well as stomach pain or cramps, low-grade fever, muscle pain, and generally feeling ill, according to Mayo Clinic.

While the infection generally clears on its own, complications can arise from becoming dehydrated from loss of bodily fluid, as well as water used from fighting the infection in general. Norovirus is highly contagious, even spreading to others days after symptoms subside. Some people who are infected may show no symptoms at all, and still be contagious. This could be common in a household of infected children presenting symptoms, and a parent showing no symptoms, for instance.

"The official diagnosis of Norovirus is made from a stool sample," Nurse Paulina told ALBB, "but usually clinicians can tell when it's a Norovirus or similar 'stomach bug' and would usually treat based on symptoms."

Medications that can be recommended are over-the-counter anti-diarrheal medication and medication to reduce nausea, "depending on the patient's history, there are some prescription medications that can be given, but it is all dependent on if they take other medicines or have other medical conditions," Nurse Paulina said.

General treatment starts with re-hydrating or maintaining hydration with a drink with electrolytes (sodium and potassium) and light sugar in it, like Gatorade or Pedialyte. Symptoms of dehydration include dizziness, fatigue, dry mouth and throat, listlessness, and decreased urine output.

Next, food can be brought back slowly. Mayo Clinic recommends bland, easy-to-digest foods like crackers, toast, bananas, applesauce, rice and chicken.

If you are experiencing any symptoms and are struggling or want to put your mind at ease to rule out what infection you may be fighting, take yourself or have someone take you to Beacon's CareFull MD urgent care at 252 Main Street next to Key Food. Handicap parking is available, and no appointment is needed. Multiple insurances are accepted, including Medicare and Medicaid.

Branded Content: This article was produced in partnership with CareFull MD, who is a Member Sponsor of A Little Beacon Blog. To reach ALBB’s readers with your message, see our Branded Content opportunity.

Back To School Needs: Pediatric Physical Exams Are Easy At CareFull MD (Sponsored)

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Carefull MD, the Walk-In Urgent Care Clinic in Beacon, NY located at 252 Main Street.

New York State requires a physical exam for all students entering school for the first time, as well as for students in grades Pre-K, K, 1, 3, 5, 7, 9, and 11. CareFull MD, the new Walk-In Urgent Care in Beacon on Main Street, offers Pediatric Physical Exams for that back-to-school rush of completing required examinations to register for sports, childcare, or to provide them for other reasons.

“I walked in at 10am on a Sunday and was met with kindness and patience. Everybody is super nice and the Doctor took the time to listen to me. I am so glad we have this urgent care here in Beacon. I will definitely return with my family’s ailments!!”
— Jessica Johnson via Google Review

Located next to Key Food, an after-school snack is also easy once the exam is complete. Or, stay in the parking lot to snack up before the appointment to ensure everyone’s mood is smooth.

No appointment is needed. Walk-Ins welcome. If you suddenly remembered that you need the paperwork, you could swing by.

What To Expect During The Physical Exam:

Medical History:

The exam will include a review of the child's medical history.

Height and Weight:

Height and weight measurements are recorded to calculate BMI and track growth patterns.

BMI:

The eye chart for vision screenings at Carefull MD on Main Street in Beacon, NY.
Photo Credit: Katie Hellmuth

Body Mass Index (BMI) and BMI percentile are required to be documented.

Vision Screening:

Vision tests are conducted to identify potential issues that may affect learning. This is a great time to catch vision issues, if the child cannot see the board clearly or easily.

Hearing Screening:

Hearing tests are also part of the screening process. This test is conducted with sounds provided by the nurse.

Physical Exams are available for people of all ages, including adults who need them to stay healthy, for work requirements, and for assisted living facilities.

CareFull MD is open 7 days a week from 10am-8pm. No appointment needed. The team is happy to assist you.

Editorial Note: This article was written in partnership with CareFul MD, a sponsor and member of ALBB’s Business Directory.

Beacon's New Urgent Care Walk-In Center Is Beautiful With All The Things - X-Rays, Blood Work - Treatment For Fevers, Bumps and Scrapes

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The intake process, Lab, Exam and X-Ray Rooms of CareFull MD
Photo Credit: Katie Hellmuth

“Just when it seems like life can’t get any busier, the school nurse calls...Bring your child over to CareFull MD, and we’ll have them taken care of all in a lunch break.”
— CareFull MD

The people of Beacon wished for their own urgent care, and they have received. CareFull MD opened at 252 Main Street, an independently owned walk-in center urgent care that rivals some primary care physicians offices.

Walking into CareFull MD feels both parts exclusive and inclusive. While it is located next door to one of main arteries of the community - Key Food - with the ample parking lot, the windows are wrapped in purple with red hearts, creating the message of caring and privacy. A TV is positioned in the corner, and programming rotates between kids movies and lighter shows depending on who is in the Waiting Room. The bathroom, true to the Best Bathrooms of Beacon, is ample and accessible for patients.

"CareFull MD bridges the gap between limited primary care hours and arduous emergency room visits,” their literature describes. “With no appointment necessary and convenient hours, CareFull MD is an even better option than your primary care. Our short wait time and affordable co-pay options make CareFull MD the best choice over the emergency room."

Primary Care & Pediatrics

CareFull MD has nailed it with how they service busy families: “Just when it seems like life can’t get any busier, the school nurse calls. We’re here to make the familiar song and dance a whole lot easier. No need to beg your primary care receptionist to squeeze you in, or wait hours past your scheduled appointment. Bring your child over to CareFull MD, and we’ll have them taken care of all in a lunch break.”

Exam Room 5, 6 and Staff Break Room at CareFull MD.
Photo Credit: Katie Hellmuth

The team at CareFull MD is bilingual in Spanish and English, and seasoned in the urgent care industry. Kim Doyle is the Office Manager, while Angelica Leall is a phlebotomist and runs the front desk with Maya (Sherrifah) who is also a phlebotomist. Paulina Taylor is a Nurse Practitioner, and Wilner Laborde a Physician Assistant.

Blood Tests On-Site

With CareFull MD’s modern in-house blood testing techniques, finding out the results of a sickness or fever can come a little quicker, rather than waiting days for the blood-work to be sent out and analyzed to determine the cause. Blood work is run on-site in the Lab for fast, convenient results. If blood-work is all one needs, one can walk in or schedule just for lab-work.

The opposite end of the exam office hall way at CareFull MD.
Photo Credit: Katie Hellmuth

COVID-19 Tests

CareFull MD offers several Covid-19 services to help people prevent and treat coronavirus. The following tests are provided: Cepheid Xpress (RT-PCR), Abbott ID NOW Rapid Molecular Test (NAAT), Quidel Sofia 2 Rapid Antigen Test, Lab-based PCR Test (Insurance accepted, this one is processed at Quest Labs).

With 6 Exams Rooms, CareFull MD is ready to treat as many patients of all ages as needed.

Primary Care Equipped

An additional patient-facing office is located in the back to service the medical professionals and patients completing different services, like wellness visits, eye exams, physicals, or preparing for an X-Ray. A comfortable Staff Break Room is provided to staff to rejuvenate.

Vaccinations

Vaccinations are a staple at CareFull MD. “More than anything we want to see our community healthy and happy,” CareFull MD says. “When it comes to prevention, vaccines are a powerful tool to help ward off common diseases and keep our community well.”

The following vaccines are offered: Seasonal Flu Shots, Travel Vaccinations, Tetanus, PPD, Occupational Health Vaccines, and Vaccine Titers.

X-Rays

Kim Doyle (standing) is the Office Manager, while Angelica Leall (sitting) is a phlebotomist, speaks fluent Spanish and English, and runs the front desk
Photo Credit: Katie Hellmuth

To provide complete care, CareFull MD offers X-Rays in-house, across from the Exam Rooms. Should something happen at soccer or out riding one’s bike, people of Beacon have easy and close access to discover if they broke, sprained, or strained a bone. No appointment necessary. With the assistance of a friend or just yourself, walk in and the staff will get you situated. A CD is provided so that you can follow up with a specialist.

Insurances

CareFull MD accepts most major health care plans including: Blue Cross Blue Shield, Aetna, Fidelis, Medicare, Medicaid, 1199, Amerigroup, Cigna, GHA, Magnacare, Metroplus, Molina, Oxford, UHC, Healthfirst, UHC Community, and Empire.

CareFull MD is actively adding insurance carriers, and advise you to send them your request to add yours at Beacon@carefullmd.com. Co-Payments are due at time of service.

Perhaps you’ll see the team soon. In wellness.

This article was produced in partnership with CareFull MD, who is a business member sponsor of ALBB’s Business Directory.

Free Sunglasses Giveaway From CareFull MD - Kids and Adult Sizes! (gafas de sol GRATI S 😎🕶️)

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💜🤍💜 F R EE 😎🕶️ sunglasses giveaway!

💜💟💜 gafas de sol G R A T I S 😎🕶️!

CareFull MD, Beacon’s first walk-in clinic urgent care is giving away sunglasses in Kids and Adult sizes.

You may have seen the flyer in elementary school kid’s folders or in the ad in the Beacon Free Press or here at A Little Beacon Blog. When you’re getting groceries - or any time or just to say “hi” to see what the spacious waiting room looks and feels like in CareFull MD’s air conditioning - come in for a pair of sunglasses. It’s CareFull MD’s housewarming gift to the community. 🤗

Open 10am-8pm Daily. Any day!

Located next to Key Food grocery store.

Walk-In Care Center Opens In Beacon - CareFull MD

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The New walk-in center for urgent care, Carefull MD.
Photo Credit: Katie Hellmuth

Laundry World, before it became CareFull MD.
Photo Credit: Carefull MD.

The closing of the laundromat at 252 Main Street was abrupt. And just like that…it was gone. Speculation of what would replace it had plenty of time to circulate, as nothing appeared for a while. And then something did. A renovation began inside. Wall partisans went up. A little time later, chairs filled what looked like would become a waiting room. Then the brand decals went up on the windows, officially signifying to the public that this would be a medical facility.

People of Beacon did want an urgent care of some sort in town. City Councilmembers had spoken about drawing medical companies to the properties down along the Fishkill Creek when they were mandating that those properties offer commercial as well as residential units. Currently, PM Pediatrics in Hopewell Junction is great for children, for a strep test or a potential broken bone. Excel Urgent Care is another, but has mixed reviews.

Enter CareFull MD, the new walk-in care facility next to Key Food that has opened after much anticipation. Owned by a single person, this facility is not a chain. The owner was searching for an ideal spot for a walk-in center as state funds became available to assist qualifying areas, and discovered Beacon. The long build-up to the opening was a result of how long it took to secure insurances.

CareFull MD intends to bridge the gap between visits to a primary care physician, and emergency room needs. They have a no-appointment-necessary policy and say they have affordable copay options.

On site, they have a lab for getting results quickly, X-ray machines, and COVID testing. Targeting the occupational and employment market with DOT physicals, drug/alcohol screenings, employment physicals, workers compensation and hazmat physical.

CareFull MD offers pediatric care, vaccinations, STD, illness and injuries and X-ray and lab testing.

Located at 252 Main Street next to Key Food.