Since Charlotte exists in an inversion area, summer air quality may be of concern to people with respiratory problems. Local weathercasts always include an air-quality rating. Travelers with asthma or similar health conditions should check the forecast before planning to spend long periods of time outdoors.
As in most U.S. cities, quality medical care is easy to find in Charlotte. Carolinas Medical Center has emergency services (1000 Blythe Blvd.; phone 704-355-2000; http://www.carolinasmedicalcenter.org). Presbyterian Hospital offers specialized emergency services for children (200 Hawthorne Lane; phone 704-384-4000; http://www.presbyterian.org). In an emergency, dial 911.
Physician referrals are available from Mecklenburg County Medical Society Physician Referral Service (phone 704-376-0847, Monday-Friday 9 am-1 pm).
Charlotte has a large number of pharmacies. CVS offers 24-hour service at 13845 Conlan Circle (phone 704-544-2092), as does the Eckerd location at 3345 Pineville Matthews Road (phone 704-543-6055).
