Emergency
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If You Are Currently Experiencing an Emergency, Dial 911
When to Visit the Emergency Department
Knowing when to seek emergency care is essential. Here are some conditions that may require immediate attention at Granite County Medical Center’s Emergency Department:
- Breathing problems or shortness of breath
- Chest pain, pressure or discomfort
- Continuous bleeding or coughing up blood
- Severe burns, cuts or injuries
- Sudden dizziness, weakness or vision changes
- Heart problems, diabetic issues or poisoning
- Neurological symptoms (confusion, difficulty waking)
When in doubt, it’s always better to seek medical attention. Our emergency care team is here to provide immediate support and coordinate the next steps, including transfers to higher-level trauma centers if needed.
As a certified Critical Access Hospital, our Emergency Room is open 24/7 to handle urgent medical needs. Whether you need emergency treatment for breathing difficulties, heart problems or severe injuries, our skilled providers and nursing staff are here to provide immediate care and stabilization. For cases requiring specialized care, we work with hospitals in Butte, Missoula, Billings, Bozeman, Helena and beyond to coordinate emergency transfers, including life-flight services.
Our commitment, however, goes beyond stabilization. We stay engaged with medical teams at higher-level facilities, advocate on your behalf and support you throughout your recovery to ensure you have the resources and guidance you need.
Our services include:
- Rapid assessment and stabilization of critical conditions
- Treatment for injuries, acute illnesses and trauma
- On-site laboratory and radiology support for diagnostics
- Coordination and transfer to higher-level care facilities as needed
- Ongoing communication with medical teams to facilitate care continuity
Frequently Asked Questions
1. What should I do in an emergency?
If you are experiencing a medical emergency, dial 911 immediately. For non-emergency concerns, contact our 24/7 Emergency Room at (406) 859-3271 for assistance.
2. Can GCMC stabilize patients and handle transfers to larger facilities?
Yes, our Emergency Department specializes in stabilizing patients and coordinating transfers to larger medical facilities in Butte, Missoula, Billings, Bozeman or Helena if further specialized treatment is required. Our team stays engaged with medical teams at these facilities and provides ongoing support throughout the patient’s recovery journey.
3. What should I bring with me to the Emergency Department?
If possible, bring a photo ID, your insurance card, a list of current medications, and any relevant medical records. However, your health and safety are the priority in emergencies, so don’t worry if you cannot gather these items before arriving.
4. Can I call the Emergency Department for advice before coming in?
While we encourage you to call if you’re uncertain, we recommend erring on the side of caution and coming in if you need emergency care. In true emergencies, always call 911.
IT’S THE LAW
If you have a medical emergency or are in labor, you have the right to receive, within the capabilities of this hospital’s staff and facilities:
- An appropriate medical screening examination
- Necessary stabilizing treatment (including treatment for an unborn child)
- And if necessary, an appropriate transfer to another facility
You may receive these services even if you cannot pay, do not have
medical insurance or are not entitled to Medicare or Medicaid.
This hospital does participate in the Medicaid program.
