In a life-threatening medical emergency, always call 911 for ambulance transportation to a hospital. UHS is not an emergency room.
What is an emergency?
According to the American College of Emergency Physicians, the following are warning signs of a medical emergency:
- Bleeding that will not stop
- Breathing problems (difficulty breathing, shortness of breath)
- Change in mental status (such as unusual behavior, confusion, difficulty arousing)
- Chest pain
- Choking
- Coughing up or vomiting blood
- Fainting or loss of consciousness
- Feeling of committing suicide or murder
- Head or spine injury
- Severe or persistent vomiting
- Sudden injury due to a motor vehicle accident, burns or smoke inhalation, near drowning, deep or large wound, or other injuries
- Sudden, severe pain anywhere in the body
- Sudden dizziness, weakness, or change in vision
- Swallowing a poisonous substance
- Severe abdominal pain or pressure
This is not an exhaustive list; if you think you are having an emergency, call 911.
Mental Health Emergencies
The Center for Counseling and Psychological Health (CCPH) is available 24 hours per day, 7 days per week, 365 days a year for mental health emergencies. Call 413-545-2337 and follow the prompts to reach the on-call clinician. In a life-threatening emergency, always dial 911.
Sexual Assault Nurse Examiner (SANE)
UHS is a designated SANE site for Western Massachusetts. If you’ve been assaulted,come to UHS as soon as possible, before showering; tell the staff you need to see a SANE. Learn More
