If you have an emergency,
call 911 or go to the nearest ER.
When every minute counts, rely on UC San Diego Health for 24/7 emergency medical care. Using the latest technology and effective treatments, we’re here for you when you need us.
We’ll stabilize your symptoms and treat your condition efficiently. Both our hospitals, in Hillcrest and La Jolla, have emergency medicine physicians who are trained in one or more specialties and a full-time attending physician who is present 24 hours a day. We also have experienced nurses and other support staff, including those specializing in senior care. Our Hillcrest ER has a Level 1 Trauma Care Center for critical or life-threatening injuries.
Hillcrest and La Jolla Emergency Locations Open 24 Hours
When to go to the Emergency Room
If you or a family member has an emergency or urgent health situation that needs prompt care, where do you go: ER, urgent care or Express Care? Learn the differences between these facilities.
Emergency services: Our emergency rooms provide advanced care for people with major, life-threatening injuries or severe health conditions that require immediate attention. This includes broken bones, heart attacks, seizures, severe burns, strokes, poisoning, traumatic injuries and mental health emergencies. Our ERs are open 24 hours a day, 7 days a week for individuals of all ages.
Express or urgent care: If you have urgent health concerns that are
not life-threatening or if you need treatment for relatively minor conditions, our urgent care or Express Care clinics are convenient alternatives to the emergency room. Compared to an ER visit, our same-day care options are less costly and have shorter wait times. You can walk in or save your spot online. Learn more about where you can go, based on your age, symptoms and condition.
Comprehensive Emergency Services
Our emergency departments in Hillcrest and La Jolla provide comprehensive emergency care, including in specialties such as:
Care for Older Adults
For many older adults, a trip to the emergency room can be daunting. That is why our geriatric ERs offer specialized care with expert teams to better serve the specific needs of seniors. From admission to discharge and beyond, we provide a superior quality of emergency care to help reduce hospital visits and readmissions for patients ages 65 and up.
Paying for Emergency Care
All ER patients receive a physical examination by a doctor prior to any contact with the patient's insurer or primary care physician. This ensures you will receive the most appropriate care regardless of your ability to pay or the decision of your health plan concerning payments.
You may receive separate bills for different parts of your emergency room visit. If you have questions, please visit
Billing and Insurance Information or call:
- For bills from UC San Diego Emergency Physician's Group, call 866-679-7477.
- For bills from UC San Diego Health, call 855-827-3633.