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SALEM – An illness or accident can happen at any time, and it may be difficult to know where to go when you need care.

“It’s important to assess the severity of your symptoms and understand your options to ensure you are getting the most appropriate level of care,” said Dr. Anita Hackstedde, Salem Regional Medical Center (SRMC) President/CEO. “While emergency departments are designed to treat people with severe and life-threatening conditions, non-emergent medical needs and symptoms can often be managed through your primary care physician or a visit to SRMC’s Immediate Care.”

SRMC Immediate Care at Firestone Farms

For everyday conditions that require timely care, SRMC Immediate Care at Firestone Farms in Columbiana offers fast, convenient access to treatment for a wide range of minor, non-life threatening illnesses and injuries, including mild to moderate flu or respiratory symptoms. Walk-in care is available seven days a week, including evenings and weekends.

“SRMC Immediate Care provides a lower cost alternative to an emergency department visit for medical conditions that are urgent, but not severe,” Hackstedde said. “Most health insurance plans are accepted, as well as self-pay options.

“In addition, most people experience much shorter waiting times than a typical emergency department visit. This is especially true now, with so many people coming to the emergency department seeking care for COVID-19 or other illnesses.”

COVID-19 Care

Those with non-emergent flu or respiratory symptoms can visit SRMC Immediate Care to be evaluated by a provider, who will determine if flu and/or COVID-19 testing is needed after the evaluation. SRMC Immediate Care only provides COVID-19 testing to patients after they have been evaluated by the on-site provider during an exam. Test results are typically available within 24 hours.

Hours

SRMC Immediate Care is open seven days a week, excluding major holidays. The facility has extended hours Monday-Friday from 9 a.m. to 7 p.m., and weekend hours on Saturday and Sunday from 8 a.m. to 2 p.m.

Immediate care services are provided to patients who are age 5 years and older. No emergency services are available at this location. Hackstedde noted that people should always go to the emergency department if they need lifesaving care.

“If you are experiencing a severe or potentially life-threatening condition such as chest pain, stroke, trouble breathing or major injuries, call 911 or visit your nearest emergency department without delay,” she advised.

SRMC Immediate Care is located at Firestone Farms TownCenter, 116 Carriage Drive, at the corner of state Routes 7 and 14. For more information, call 330-892-5092.