Know Where to Go for Care This Holiday Season

The holidays bring us closer together, but they also increase the chances of catching a cold or flu or sustaining minor injuries from holiday cooking and decorating. Planning ahead for possible health needs during the holidays can provide peace of mind and ensure you’re prepared for any unexpected situations.

In most cases, reaching out to your primary care provider is the best first step. Many providers keep time open in their schedules for urgent needs. However, knowing where to turn if your doctor isn’t available can help you and your family handle unexpected illnesses or injuries with confidence. For a complete list of conditions and care options at Bronson, visit bronsonhealth.com/needcarenow.

When to Go to Bronson FastCare®

Bronson FastCare® provides walk-in care for patients 18 months and older with minor illnesses, such as:

  • Sore throat
  • Fever
  • Ear or sinus infection and more
  • Flu
  • Urinary tract infection or UTI (3 years and older)

See a fill list of conditions treated

FastCare Locations and Hours
There are two convenient locations in Kalamazoo, open 7 days a week from 8 a.m. to 8 p.m. Registration closes briefly from 2 to 2:30 p.m. for lunch (time may vary).

Holiday Adjustments:

  • Closes early at 5 p.m. on Christmas Eve and New Year’s Eve
  • Open 8 a.m. to 5 p.m.
  • Closed on Christmas Day
  • Closes early at 2 p.m. on New Year's Day

When to Go to Urgent Care

When you need immediate care for a non-emergency, Urgent Care is often the best choice. Bronson Urgent Care provides care for patients three months of age and older for conditions such as:

  • Seasonal illnesses
  • Cuts that need stitches
  • Minor burns or rashes
  • UTI
  • Possible broken bones needing X-rays

Urgent Care Locations and Hours

Battle Creek Location: 2151 W. Columbia Ave., Battle Creek

  • Hours: Open daily from 8 a.m. to 8 p.m.
  • Holiday Adjustments:
    • Closes early at 5 p.m. on Christmas Eve and New Year’s Eve
    • Closed on Christmas Day

Kalamazoo Location: 940 John St., Kalamazoo

  • Hours: Open daily from 10 a.m. to 9 p.m.
  • Holiday Adjustments:
    • Closes early at 3 p.m. on Christmas Eve and New Year’s Eve
    • Closed on Christmas Day

When to Go to the Emergency Room (ER)

For serious or life-threatening emergencies such as stroke symptoms, chest pain, severe injuries, trouble breathing or per your doctor’s instruction. Call 911 or go to the ER right away. Bronson has ER locations in Battle Creek, Kalamazoo, Paw Paw and South Haven.

See All Bronson ER Locations 

When to Use On-Demand Video Visits

Video visits are also a convenient care option for minor health concerns, especially during the holidays. It makes it possible for you to see a doctor online from anywhere in Michigan, even if you’re not a Bronson patient. Bronson’s On-Demand Video Visits are available every day from 7 a.m. to 7 p.m., for patients 18 months and older.

Request an On-Demand Video Visit

24/7 Help from Care Advisors for Bronson Patients

If you’re unsure about a health concern, Bronson Care Advisors are ready to assist you. They provide guidance on whether to seek immediate care or manage symptoms at home. They can also schedule an appointment with your doctor. Always keep their number on hand in case you need it. 

Call (269) 341-7788

Bronson MyChart Symptom Checker

For minor health concerns, Bronson’s online symptom checker is a quick way to get advice. Just like speaking to a health advisor, it guides you based on answers to questions about your symptoms.
Use the Symptom Checker

Want to keep up on all the latest health news and trends?

It’s simple with our free monthly newsletter! Select the topics that are right for you and get updates sent right to your inbox. 

Subscribe today