Health problems do not follow a schedule. You might wake up on a Saturday with a fever or cut yourself while cooking Sunday dinner. Waiting until Monday to see a doctor can make things worse. This is where the role of the weekend doctor comes in.
A weekend doctor is a medical professional available to see patients on Saturdays and Sundays. They provide care for urgent but not life-threatening conditions, helping you avoid long waits and crowded emergency rooms. Weekend doctors can work in urgent care centers, walk-in clinics, or as concierge doctors, offering flexible hours to fit your needs
Here are some tips for finding weekend doctors in Tucson, AZ.
Ask Your Regular Doctor
If you have a primary care doctor, ask if they have weekend doctors in their practice.
Some doctor’s offices have after-hours services or partnerships with urgent care centers to ensure you get the care you need. It is always good to know your options ahead of time.
For example, this is the case for Dr. Robert Lending’s practice of concierge medicine in Tucson, AZ. For urgent cases, you can contact our hotline even after hours. Weekend doctors will help you when you need urgent medical assistance.
Look for Concierge Doctors
Concierge doctors offer 24-hour services for urgent medical needs. They provide personalized care and are available whenever you need them for urgent services, including weekends.
These doctors usually charge an annual fee, but you get easy access and quick appointments. This can be a great option if you want fast and reliable healthcare.
Call Your Insurance
Your health insurance company can be a big help. Call the number on your insurance card and ask for a list of available weekend doctors.
They can tell you which doctors are in your network, which means lower costs for you. This can save you time and money.
Online Searches
Use the internet to find weekend doctors. Many healthcare websites let you search by day and time. You can also read reviews from other patients to help you choose the best doctor for your needs.
Look for phrases like “open on weekends” or “weekend hours” to narrow down your search.
Why It Is Important Not to Wait for Medical Care
Waiting to see a doctor can make health problems worse. Here are some reasons why getting care right away is important:
Prevent Complications
Early treatment can stop a minor issue from becoming a major one. For example, an untreated infection can spread and cause more serious health problems.
Reduce Pain and Discomfort
Quick medical care can help manage pain and discomfort sooner, making you feel better faster.
Avoid Emergency Room Visits
Seeing a doctor early can help you avoid a trip to the emergency room, which can be costly and time-consuming.
Peace of Mind
Knowing what is wrong and starting treatment can reduce worry and stress. It is better to know than to guess and hope for the best.
Knowing When to Visit the ER
Sometimes, your health problem is too serious to wait. Here are some signs that you should go to the emergency room right away:
- Severe Chest Pain: This could be a sign of a heart attack
- Trouble Breathing: If you are having a hard time breathing, go to the ER
- Heavy Bleeding: If you cannot stop the bleeding, seek emergency help
- Serious Head Injuries: Head injuries can be very dangerous and need immediate attention
It is always better to be safe than sorry. If your symptoms are severe, go to the emergency room nearest you.
The Best Weekend Doctors in Tucson, AZ
If you are looking for the best weekend doctors near you, look no further than Dr. Robert E. Lending, MD, in Tucson, AZ. As a board-certified internal medicine and lipidology specialist, he screens for, treats, and helps patients manage and prevent various healthcare issues and medical conditions.
For any questions about our services or to schedule your consultation with Dr. Lending, call us today at (520) 795-4291.
Let us help you get the timely care you deserve, even on weekends. We look forward to serving you!
