Where to go for medical care
When you need medical attention, knowing where to go for health care can help you save time — and help assure you'll get the care you need. You may choose care from your primary care provider (PCP), a virtual visit (or telehealth), urgent care or emergency room, depending on your situation. Here are tips to help you choose where to go for care.
Consider your medical need
Where you go for care depends on what kind of medical care you'll need. Look at the examples in the chart below to get a sense of the options you may choose.
What you need | Types of care or treatments | Where to go |
---|---|---|
Preventive and routine care |
|
Your primary care provider (PCP) |
Your issue isn't an emergency, but your PCP isn't available |
|
Urgent care
|
Life threatening and/or very serious conditions |
|
Emergency room |
Treatment options or care from your home or work | Use your smartphone, tablet or computer to connect with a provider for these types of care:
(Note: your virtual care options may depend on your health plan) |
Virtual visits |
Tell your PCP about care you received
If you receive urgent or emergency care, It's important share information with your PCP, including diagnoses, treatments, prescriptions and therapy recommendations. This will help your PCP make the best possible decisions about your ongoing health and well-being. It will also help with coordinating care between other providers.
Do you get your health insurance through work?
If you have an employer-sponsored health plan,1 your care choices may help you save both time and money. Let's take a look.
Watch and learn more about where to go for care
Whether you're walking home from work or sitting on the couch, feeling a sudden change in health can be upsetting. Some health conditions are serious, but it's important to keep calm and follow a plan. Watch this video to learn more about when to choose the ER vs another option.