Emergency & Urgent Care
TidalHealth provides emergency services around the clock and urgent care services seven days a week. Our dedicated Emergency Care team is ready to help, whether your need is big or small. We treat sudden illnesses, injuries, and medical concerns that require prompt attention. Our emergency treatment areas are private, and with on-site X-ray and other diagnostic resources, we can act quickly when every moment counts.
At TidalHealth, we are prepared to handle emergencies and, if necessary, help transfer patients to hospitals that provide critical care. Our team — practitioners, nurses, technicians, and support staff — works together to ensure you receive the care you need. TidalHealth has earned a reputation for reliable and accurate emergency and trauma care, giving you a trusted place to turn when life is unpredictable.
We also offer urgent care for conditions that may not be emergencies but still require prompt treatment. Our goal is to guide you to the right level of care, keep you comfortable, and support you and your loved ones when you need it most.
If you believe you are having a health emergency, call 911 immediately. In cases like a heart attack or stroke, every second matters. It can be difficult to know when to act, but there are times you should not wait. Signs of a true emergency include chest pain, sudden confusion, trouble breathing, severe pain, or heavy bleeding. Sudden changes in your ability to speak, see, or move — or any loss of consciousness — also require immediate attention.
For any situation that feels serious, it is always better to be safe and get checked by our emergency care team. Trust your instincts and reach out for help. Your safety is our priority, and we are here when you need care the most.
When you arrive at a TidalHealth Emergency Department, a triage nurse will assess your condition to determine how quickly you need care. This ensures the sickest patients are seen first. The process may vary depending on the severity of your condition.
If you are experiencing a serious issue and may need hospital admission, you will be placed in a gown, assigned a bed, and treatment will begin. For less severe conditions, you may move through a pathway for mobile patients, allowing quick evaluation and treatment before returning home.
No matter the situation, you will be monitored closely for changes in your condition, and care will be adjusted as needed. Our Emergency Care team includes physicians, nurses, technicians, and support staff. Your initial evaluation may be by a physician, physician assistant, nurse practitioner, or specially trained emergency nurse. Radiology, laboratory, or therapy professionals may also be involved if your care requires them.
If you have questions or concerns at any point, please speak up. Our goal is to keep you informed, comfortable, and cared for at every step.
Maryland Sexual Assault Kit Initiative (SAKI)
If you had a sexual assault forensic exam and would like updates about your kit in Maryland, contact a SAKI Advocate at the Maryland Coalition Against Sexual Assault by calling 833-364-0046 or emailing [email protected]. Your inquiry will remain confidential.
Sometimes you need care quickly, but your condition is not life-threatening. In these cases, urgent care can be a helpful option. TidalHealth's urgent care centers are available when your doctor is unavailable or if you need to be seen outside regular office hours. These centers handle a range of illnesses and minor injuries and can guide you to the appropriate level of care if more attention is needed.
For added convenience, TidalHealth's urgent care centers offer online wait times and the ability to save your spot in line. This makes it easier to get the care you need, when you need it. If you are unsure whether to go to urgent care or need further guidance, our team is ready to help you choose the best option.
How do I know if I should go to the Emergency Department or urgent care?
If your illness or injury is life-threatening or you have severe symptoms, call 911 or go to the Emergency Department immediately. For less serious concerns that still require prompt attention, urgent care may be appropriate.
What happens when I arrive at the Emergency Department?
A triage nurse will assess your condition and determine how quickly you need care. You will then be guided to the appropriate type of care and monitored throughout your visit.
What kind of providers might I see during my emergency or urgent care visit?
You may see physicians, nurses, physician assistants, nurse practitioners, or other trained medical staff. Tests or imaging may also be part of your evaluation and treatment.
Can I ask questions during my emergency or urgent care visit?
Absolutely. If you have questions or concerns, let a member of your care team know. We want you to feel informed, comfortable, and supported throughout your visit.
Where can I find more information about where to go for care?
TidalHealth provides resources to guide you to the right level of care. If you are unsure which setting is best, you can reach out to us for advice or review information available on our website.
