Experiencing a sudden eye issue can be alarming. When it comes to your vision, immediate attention can make all the difference. At Mass Eye and Ear, we understand that eye emergencies don’t always happen during regular office hours. That’s why we offer a dedicated Emergency Department (ED) with a Virtual Hotline program, ensuring you have access to expert guidance and care whenever you need it.
Our Virtual Hotline is staffed by experienced nurses who are ready to address your urgent eye health questions and concerns. When you call 617-573-3880, a nurse will conduct a triage assessment, asking specific questions to understand your situation. This process helps determine whether you require immediate in-person care at our ED or if a virtual consultation is appropriate for your needs. This service is available to residents of Massachusetts, providing convenient access to initial emergency eye care. For severe situations such as intense eye pain, sudden vision loss, eye trauma, or new onset of flashes or floaters, our ED is open 24/7 to provide immediate, in-person treatment.
When to Seek an Emergency Eye Doctor: Eye Trauma and Urgent Conditions
Mass Eye and Ear stands as a leading referral center in New England for eye trauma and various eye emergencies. We provide critical support to patients when their regular eye doctor is unavailable and immediate care is necessary. Our comprehensive Eye Trauma Service operates with a consistent weekly schedule for outpatient follow-up appointments and specialized services encompassing retina, cornea, glaucoma, oculoplastics, and neuro-ophthalmology. Our operating rooms are always ready for any urgent surgical interventions required to address severe eye conditions.
Our Emergency Department also acts as a tertiary referral center, supporting other hospitals and trauma centers in the region that may lack specialized ophthalmology coverage. If you’ve experienced isolated eye trauma and are otherwise medically stable, you can be referred to Mass Eye and Ear ED for expert consultation, treatment, and hospital admission if necessary. Our team possesses extensive experience in managing emergent ophthalmic conditions, treating over 20,000 patients annually. You can trust in our expertise when facing an eye emergency.
Comprehensive Emergency ENT Care Available
Beyond eye care, Mass Eye and Ear also hosts the region’s only emergency services dedicated to ear, nose, and throat (ENT), head, and neck conditions. Our ENT emergency services are staffed around the clock, seven days a week, ensuring immediate care for these critical areas. We collaborate closely with Massachusetts General Hospital, providing seamless access for patients who may have broader medical concerns or related health issues. Furthermore, we have access to cutting-edge radiologic imaging and hyperbaric oxygen therapy to enhance our diagnostic and treatment capabilities.
Conditions that are appropriately referred to our ENT emergency services include epistaxis (nosebleeds), sudden hearing loss, ear injuries, head and neck injuries, foreign objects in the ears, nose, or throat, facial fractures, burns affecting the nose, ears, or mouth, facial paralysis, sinus disorders, dizziness, compromised upper airways, difficulty swallowing, and unexplained lumps in the neck or throat, among other urgent conditions.
In any eye or ENT emergency, remember Mass Eye and Ear is here to provide immediate and expert care. Don’t hesitate to call our hotline or visit our Emergency Department for the help you need.
