If you or a family member start feeling unwell, one of the first questions that comes up is whether to rush to the emergency room or simply book a regular OPD appointment. Knowing the difference can save you time — and in a real emergency, it can save a life.
When to head straight to Emergency
Don't wait for an appointment if you notice chest pain or pressure, trouble breathing, sudden weakness or numbness, slurred speech, heavy bleeding that won't stop, a serious injury from a fall or accident, high fever along with confusion or a stiff neck, sudden severe stomach pain, or loss of consciousness. If something feels seriously wrong, it's always safer to come in and get checked than to wait it out at home.
Our emergency department at Ibn Sina Hospital runs 24/7, every day of the year, with a consultant-led team ready to respond the moment you walk in. Call 9622552553 anytime.
When OPD is the better option
For anything non-urgent — a routine check-up, follow-up on an ongoing condition like diabetes or thyroid, a mild cough or cold, a minor skin issue, or scheduling a test like TMT, Holter monitoring or ABPM — a regular OPD visit is the right call. Booking ahead usually means a shorter wait and gets you in front of the right specialist.
Our OPD runs Monday to Friday, 9 AM to 6 PM, and Saturday, 10 AM to 1 PM.
Still not sure?
That's completely normal — a lot of symptoms are genuinely hard to judge on your own. If you're unsure, just call our reception and describe what's going on. Our team can help point you toward the right next step, whether that means coming in right away or setting up an appointment.