Quick answer: A freestanding ER is a full emergency department that isn’t attached to a hospital. It’s open 24/7 and charges emergency room prices, including ER copays and facility fees. An urgent care center treats non-emergency illnesses and injuries for much less, but isn’t open 24/7 and can’t handle major emergencies. Several freestanding ERs operate in Northern Virginia, so check the sign carefully: if it says “Emergency,” expect ER-level bills.

Both look like small, modern clinics in a shopping center or office park. Choosing the wrong one for a minor problem can mean a much larger bill.

New to PACS? Start with our complete guide to urgent care in Alexandria, VA.

Side-by-side

Urgent care Freestanding ER
Hours Set hours (PACS Alexandria: 8 AM – 8 PM daily) 24/7
Handles Non-life-threatening illness and injury True emergencies, including heart attack and stroke evaluation
Billing Urgent care copay or self-pay rates Emergency room copay and facility fees
Typical cost Lower Often several times higher for the same diagnosis

How to tell which one you’re walking into

  • Look for the word “Emergency” or “ER” on the sign
  • Check whether it’s open 24 hours
  • Look for an ambulance entrance
  • Ask at the front desk: “Is this billed as an emergency room or urgent care?”

When to choose each

Urgent care: colds, flu, strep, UTIs, ear infections, sprains, simple fractures, cuts that need stitches, rashes and mild asthma. See our guide to urgent care costs.

ER (hospital or freestanding): chest pain, stroke signs, severe trouble breathing, heavy bleeding, seizures, serious head injuries and major fractures. Read chest pain: urgent care or ER?

Frequently asked questions

Is a freestanding ER cheaper than a hospital ER?

Usually not. Freestanding ERs typically charge the same as hospital-based ERs.

Can a freestanding ER admit me to the hospital?

No. If you need admission, you’ll be transferred, often by ambulance.

Never skip the ER because of cost

For true emergencies, go to the nearest ER or call 911. Federal law requires emergency care regardless of ability to pay. For more, read urgent care vs. emergency room.

Get care today at PACS Urgent Care

PACS Urgent Care – Alexandria
3481 N Beauregard St, Alexandria, VA 22302
Open 7 days a week, 8 AM – 8 PM · Walk-ins welcome
Call (571) 656-8838 · Get directions · New patient guide

This article is for general information and isn’t a substitute for medical advice. If you think you’re having a medical emergency, call 911.