In a life-threatening medical emergency, always call 911 for ambulance transportation to a hospital. UHS is not an emergency room.
For urgent, non-life-threatening situations that cannot wait for an appointment, you may proceed to UHS.
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
Emergency mental health help is available 24/7. Call the Center for Counseling and Psychological Health 413-545-2337 weekdays, 8:30 am - 4:30 pm. On weekdays after 4:30 pm, weekends, and holidays, call the Protocall Crisis Line at 877-831-7421 to speak with a clinician.
Sexual Assault Nurse Examiner (SANE) program
UHS is a designated SANE site for Western Massachusetts. If you’ve been assaulted, complete the Minute Nurse Triage form or call 413-577-5229 as soon as possible; tell the staff you need to see a SANE.
Learn more about the Massachusetts SANE Program
