Patients can go to the emergency room for any symptom, but it isn’t always the best option. For example, a patient could seek emergency care for the common cold. However, they may end up waiting for an extended amount of time, as emergency rooms prioritize patients with life-threatening conditions, even if they arrive later. If the condition is not life-threatening and you can reasonably wait for treatment, a virtual or in-person visit with a specialist may be a cheaper and more efficient option.