SUBJECT: When should you go to the emergency room? BODY:
When you or one of your family members gets injured or gets sick, it can be tempting to go straight to the emergency room to get care – but that’s often not the most efficient or cost-effective option. While you can’t predict illness or injuries, you can familiarize yourself with different options for care today so you’re more prepared to make the decision that’s right for you and your family in the future. If you have a life- or limb-threatening medical emergency, go to the emergency room. At the ER, true emergencies are treated first, and other cases must wait – sometimes for hours. So, if you are experiencing a true emergency, then the ER is the best place to receive care. If your injury or illness isn’t an emergency, then you will likely have to wait for care because others will be treated before you. The ER is also the most expensive option for care. If you’re not experiencing a medical emergency, consider using one of the following options instead of the ER.
For care during normal office hours, it’s usually best to go to your primary care doctor. Your PCP knows your history, can provide follow-up care, and can refer you to a specialist, if needed. If you don’t have a primary care doctor, now is a great time to start looking for one! Check your medical insurance provider’s website, or call the contact listed in your benefit guide. Telemedicine is a great option that increased in popularity as the world became more virtual during 2020. Depending on your insurance coverage, this option will look a little different. While there are some large stand-alone telemedicine providers, you might also consider calling your physician’s office. Ask if they offer telephonic or web-based appointments to help keep your exposure to germs lower! If your PCP isn’t available, and you’re experiencing a non-routine issue, then visit a local urgent care center. Urgent care centers typically don’t require an appointment and are often open in the evenings and on weekends. Plus, in-network urgent care centers are faster and much less expensive than the ER.
Familiarize yourself with the options above – they can help keep your healthcare costs lower this year.