Our Walk-In Care services are here for non-life-threatening health concerns that need prompt attention. If you’re a North Star Health patient, we’ll do our best to have your Primary Care Provider see you—if schedules allows. Otherwise, you’ll be seen by the first available provider. On rare occasions when patient volume is extremely high, you may be asked to make an appointment or return the next day. 

To help you get the care you need without unnecessary delays or frustration, we’ve created this quick guide to help you decide the best path for care. And remember—if you’re experiencing a life-threatening emergency, always call 911. 

Where and When to Access Walk-In Care (Click Location for up-to-date hours)

Charlestown Health Center: Open 7 days a week
Ludlow Health Centers: Open Monday through Friday 
Springfield Health Centers: Open Monday through Friday 

When to visit our Walk-In:

  • Abdominal Pain (Mild)
  • Aches & Pains
  • Allergies Animal Bites (Mild)
  • Asthma
  • Cough & Cold Ear Pain
  • Eye Redness, Discharge, and Irritation
  • Fever
  • Flu
  • Insect Bites
  • Lab tests for minor problems
  • Migraines
  • Minor Burns, Cuts & Scrapes
  • Minor injuries
  • Minor Nose bleeds
  • Nausea, Vomiting, and/or Diarrhea
  • Painful Urination
  • Rashes & Skin Irritation
  • Sinus Infections
  • Sore Throat
  • Sprains and Strains
  • Stitches, depending on severity and age of the patient
  • Stomach Upset or Stomach Pain

When to go to the Emergency Department:

  • Chest Pain
  • Bluish Lips or Face
  • Coughing or Vomiting Blood
  • Deep Cuts or Bleeding that won’t stop
  • Difficulty Breathing
  • Head injuries in patients over 65 years old or patients who are on blood thinners
  • High Fever, especially in infants
  • Loss of consciousness, fainting, or passing out
  • New Confusion or Inability to Arouse
  • Numbness in Face, Arms, or Leg
  • Persistent Chest Pain or Pressure
  • Seizure
  • Severe Abdominal Pain
  • Severe Allergic Reactions
  • Severe Burns
  • Sudden Blurred Vision or Vision Loss
  • Sudden Dizziness, Weakness, or Loss of Coordination/Balance
  • Sudden, Severe Headache

During your Walk-In Care visit, you may be referred for additional services such as radiology, lab tests, or the nearest Emergency Department if symptoms require. We also recommend following up with your primary care provider afterward to support your recovery and prevent further complications. 

While you don’t need to be an established North Star Health patient to use our Walk-In Care services, we strongly encourage it. Having a primary care provider helps ensure ongoing support for your health and wellness, as well as better continuity of care. 

We are committed to making care accessible to everyone, regardless of ability to pay. We offer a sliding scale for services for those who qualify. This includes patients with and without insurance. If you think you might benefit, click here for information about applying. For specific billing questions, contact Patient Business Services at 802-886-8950.