Where to go to for Care

Where to Go for Care
You’re feeling sick, but your primary care physician is booked through the end of the month. You have a question about the side effects of a new prescription, but the pharmacy is closed. Or you’re on vacation and are under the weather. Instead of rushing to the emergency room or relying on questionable information from the internet, consider all of your site-of-care options.

When to Use

You need a quick answer to a
health issue that does not require
immediate medical treatment or a
physician visit.

Nurse Line

Types of Care

Answers to questions regarding:

■ Symptoms

■ Self-care/home treatments

■ Medications and side effects

■ When to seek care

Cost & Time Considerations

■ Usually available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week

■ Typically free as part of your medical insurance

When to Use

You need care for minor illnesses and ailments but would prefer not to leave home. These services are available by phone and online(via webcam).

Telemedicine

Types of Care

■ Cold & flu symptoms

■ Bronchitis

■ Urinary tract infection

■ Sinus problems

Cost & Time Considerations

■ Requires a low copay or coinsurance (depending on the medical plan)

■ Typically immediate access to care

■ Prescriptions through tele medicine or virtual visits not allowed in all states

When to Use

You need routine care or treatment for a current health issue. Your primary doctor knows you and your health history, can access your medical records, provide routine care, and manage your medications.

Primary Care Center

Types of Care

■ Routine checkups

■ Immunizations

■ Preventive services

■ Managing your general health

Cost & Time Considerations

Requires a copay or coinsurance (depending on the medical plan)

■ Normally requires an appointment

■ Short wait time with scheduled appointment

When to Use

You need care quickly, but it is not a true emergency. Urgent care centers offer treatment for non‑life‑threatening injuries or illnesses.

Urgent Care Center

Types of Care

■ Strains, sprains

■ Minor broken bones (e.g., finger)

■ Minor infections

■ Minor burns

Cost & Time Considerations

■ Requires a high copay or coinsurance (depending on the medical plan)

■ Walk-in patients welcome, but urgency determines order seen and wait time

When to Use

You need immediate treatment for a serious life-threatening condition. If a situation seems life threatening, call 911 or your local emergency number right away.

Emergency Room

Types of Care

■ Heavy bleeding

■ Chest pain

■ Major burns

■ Severe head injury

Cost & Time Considerations

■ Requires a high copay and/or coinsurance (depending on the medical plan)

■ Open 24/7, but waiting periods may be longer because patients with life-threatening emergencies will be treated first

■ Ambulance charges, if applicable, will be separate and may not be in-network

Medical