Emergency Room - Dignity Health - Arroyo Grande Community Hospital

The ER is for serious or life-threatening conditions like chest pain, stroke symptoms, difficulty breathing, severe injuries or uncontrollable bleeding. For less severe issues like minor cuts, sprains or colds, urgent care may be more appropriate. If you think you may be experiencing a life-threatening emergency, call 911 immediately.

Our ER treats a wide range of emergency conditions, from broken bones and chest pain to serious accidents and life-threatening injuries. Our ER has specially trained teams for heart and stroke care, supporting timely diagnosis and treatment when needed.

No, an appointment is not needed. Our ER is open 24/7 for emergencies. Upon arrival, please use the separate, clearly marked ER entrance.

Patients are seen based on how serious their condition is, not by order of arrival. This process is called triage. From the moment you arrive, you’ll speak with a nurse who will assess your needs and help ensure you receive the most appropriate care as quickly as possible. Patients with life-threatening conditions or severe injury will be prioritized for immediate care.

Bring a photo ID, insurance card, a list of medications and any relevant medical records, if available. You may also bring someone who can help provide information about your condition.

We typically share a summary of your visit with your primary care provider (PCP) or referring health care provider. This helps keep your care team informed about your emergency department visit and any treatment you may have received, and supports follow-up care if needed.

Yes. Emergency care is provided regardless of your ability to pay or whether you have insurance.

We also help with public health coverage applications and offer payment assistance for eligible uninsured patients. Please visit the Admitting/Patient Registration department or call (805) 473-7697 for details.