High season in Southwest Florida brings sunshine, visitors, and plenty of activity — but it also brings busy roads, packed restaurants, and longer lines everywhere you go. That surge extends to local healthcare facilities as well. Lee Health emergency departments (EDs) are experiencing near capacity conditions, leading to longer wait times and fewer available hospital beds.
Even during the busiest months, Lee Health is here for you — whether you’re dealing with sniffles, a sprained wrist, or something more serious. But knowing where to go for care can make a meaningful difference. Choosing the right setting for your minor, non emergency needs helps reduce ED wait times for those who truly need emergency care and saves you time and money.
This guide walks you through your best options so you can get the right care, at the right place, at the right time.
Why Choosing the Right Care Matters
Dr. Larry Antonucci, President & CEO of Lee Health, emphasized the importance of making informed choices during this busy time of year.
“It’s that time of year again: Flu and other contagious viruses (like RSV and COVID-19) are circulating, and our Lee Health Emergency Departments (EDs) are seeing more patients,” he said. “As viruses and patient volumes rise, we’d like to remind our patients, seasonal residents, and visitors where to go for the most appropriate care.”
Dr. Antonucci noted that seasonal patterns have shifted in recent years.
“Typically, we launch this annual campaign later in the season, but this year we’re already seeing a surge in our EDs. ‘Season’ in Southwest Florida continues to evolve, and we’re no longer experiencing the sharp fluctuations in patient volume we once did; our EDs are busy year-round.”
And while the ED is essential for life threatening emergencies, it isn’t always the right place for less severe issues.
“The ED is not always the most appropriate place for care,” Dr. Antonucci said. “Knowing where to go can help you avoid long wait times and ensure you receive the right care while also helping preserve community healthcare resources.”
Start With In Person Primary Care
Your primary care physician (PCP) should be your first stop for most health concerns. As Dr. Antonucci explained, “Your primary care physician is the foundation of your health and wellness. They can help with general concerns, preventive care, chronic disease management, tests, and referrals.”
Virtual Care:
24/7 Convenience
If you can’t wait for an in person appointment, Lee Health’s Virtual Care options offer fast, affordable access from home.
• Lee TeleHealth On-Demand Video Visits. Provides on-demand live video consultations with a healthcare provider. This service is $59 and self-pay only.
• Lee TeleHealth Scheduled Video Visits. Provides scheduled live video consultations with your primary care provider or specialist. Costs vary by service and your chosen provider.
• Lee TeleHealth e-Visits. A message-based telemedicine service that doesn’t require appointments or real-time communication. This service is $29 and self-pay only.
• Symptom checker. Choose a symptom, and we’ll connect you to the appropriate care options based on your condition.
These services are ideal for non emergencies such as cold symptoms, minor infections, or medication questions.
Urgent Care: Same Day, Non Emergency Treatment
When you need prompt care but it’s not an emergency, Lee Convenient Care is a strong choice. Clinics are open 7 days a week and treat:
• Allergies, cold, flu, and strep throat
• Ear infections and urinary tract infections
• Rashes and skin issues
• Minor fractures (not protruding through the skin)
• Labs, TB tests, IVs, EKGs, and more
Each location offers X ray services, and you can check current wait times online.
“If you need quick treatment for minor, non-emergency injuries or illnesses and can’t wait for an appointment with your primary care provider, Lee Convenient Care or another urgent care clinic is your best option,” Dr. Antonucci said.
Emergency Care: For Life Threatening Conditions Only, 24/7
If you believe your life is at risk, call 911 immediately.
The ED is the right place for:
• Chest pain, difficulty breathing or shortness of breath
• Severe abdominal pain
• Stroke symptoms (slurred speech, numbness)
• Major injuries, broken bones protruding through the skin
• Severe allergic reactions
• Unresponsiveness, fainting, or seizures
• Vaginal bleeding during pregnancy
• Head or eye injuries
• Deep lacerations or wounds requiring stitches
Remember: EDs triage patients, meaning the most severe cases are treated first. Calling 911 does not guarantee faster treatment once you arrive. All patients are triaged on arrival to ensure the safest and most appropriate care.
Lee Health is here and ready to care for you. Find the right care, at the right place, at the right time, at Lee Health.