Many patients wonder about the difference between acute care and primary care, and when each may be appropriate. At River Family Health, we provide both, offering continuity for everyday health needs and immediate support when urgent issues arise. While the details vary by individual, understanding the general distinctions can help you feel more confident when scheduling an appointment.
What is Primary Care?
Primary care is focused on long-term health and preventive services. It often includes wellness visits, screenings, chronic condition management, and guidance for maintaining overall well-being. These visits provide an opportunity to establish a relationship with a provider who knows your history and can help coordinate care over time. Learn more about what we offer on our Services page.
What is Acute Care?
Acute care, on the other hand, typically addresses urgent or short-term needs. These might include injuries, infections, or sudden changes in health that require timely attention. Having access to acute care through the same clinic that manages your wellness visits ensures consistency and avoids fragmented care. Explore more about our approach to prevention on our Annual Wellness Visits page.
Why Both Matter
Both acute care and primary care play essential roles in a comprehensive health plan. Primary care builds a foundation of prevention, while acute care addresses immediate concerns. Together, they ensure patients are supported in both everyday health and unexpected situations.
Additional Perspectives
Knowing the difference between acute and primary care can help patients make informed choices, but there is no need to have every answer in advance. Our team at River Family Health is here to help guide you toward the type of care that best supports your needs in the moment while maintaining focus on long-term wellness.
