When patients need urgent medical care, not every condition requires a trip to the emergency room.
For those experiencing orthopedic injuries or pain, Southwest Ortho Urgent Care at Intermountain St. George Regional Hospital provides a convenient option for timely, specialized treatment.
“It’s like an InstaCare just for orthopedics,” said Dr. Warren Butterfield, orthopedic surgeon at St. George Regional Hospital.
The clinic serves patients with orthopedic injuries and conditions who need prompt attention but are otherwise stable. Common concerns include sprains, strains, fractures, sports injuries, joint pain, shoulder injuries, knee arthritis, and other musculoskeletal issues.
“In the past, many of these patients would have to be seen in the emergency department, but they didn’t necessarily need that level of urgent care,” Butterfield said. “This clinic allows them to receive the urgent orthopedic care they need while helping keep emergency resources available for patients with more serious or life-threatening conditions.”
When looked at from the perspective of the patient, the Intermountain system, and the providers, it’s a win-win-win.
“From the patient perspective, it saves a lot of time, usually less than an hour from arrival to discharge, and it saves them money,” Butterfield said. “From the Intermountain system perspective, it helps relieve pressure on the emergency department, and for providers, it allows us to offer a higher level of care and give patients more direct access to the providers. It’s been a tremendous benefit for everyone involved.”
Patients are often seen, treated, and discharged in less time than a typical emergency department visit. Because the clinic is staffed by orthopedic specialists, patients also receive targeted evaluation and treatment without the need for multiple appointments or referrals.
“It’s a faster path to orthopedic care,” Butterfield said. “We’re not trying to circumvent primary care providers, but they’re so busy that it can be difficult to get an evaluation on the same day. For a lot of people’s busy lifestyles, this meets a need.”
Located inside the Outpatient Services Center at St. George Regional Hospital, Southwest Ortho Urgent Care has become an important resource for Southern Utah residents seeking specialized care for orthopedic injuries and conditions.
“It’s rewarding to see the impact this service has on our patients and community,” Butterfield said. “It raises the level of orthopedic care available locally and provides easier access to the expertise people need when an injury occurs.”
Southwest Ortho Urgent Care is located inside the Outpatient Services Center at Intermountain St. George Regional Hospital. Walk-in hours are 8:00 a.m. to 7:00 p.m., Monday through Saturday.
Health & Fitness
ABOUT THE AUTHOR: Brad Gillman is the Media Manager for the Intermountain Health Desert Region, where he leads the development and execution of media strategies to effectively communicate the organization’s mission and achievements. With a passion for storytelling and a sharp eye for detail, Brad works closely with the communications team to ensure impactful and engaging content across all platforms. His expertise in media relations and content creation helps elevate the profile of healthcare in the community.