We have all been in situations where we need medical care that can’t wait until our Family Doctor’s next available appointment.
When you find yourself with a medical condition that needs immediate attention, but does not require the life saving care provided by an emergency room, consider the alternatives available to you. The time and money spent at an emergency room may not be the best choice.
Where
Total Cost
Member Cost
Emergency Room
$ 3,300.00
$ 700.00
Urgent Care
$ 190.00
$ 60.00
Retail Mini-Clinic
$ 88.00
$ 25.00
Virtual Care
$ 60.00
$ 10.00
Cedar Gate Analytics National Average: Actual Costs vary by State and Plan
With many options for getting care, how do you choose? This chart will help you understand the differences between your options and how you can save money.
Emergency Room
Emergency rooms see patients based upon the urgency of your condition, the less critical your need the longer you will wait to be seen.
Suggested for the treatment of:
•
Life or Limb Threatening Conditions
•
Concussions
•
Heavy Bleeding that won’t stop
•
Major Bone Fractures
•
Stroke Symptoms
•
Severe Abdominal Pain
•
Chest Pain or Shortness of Breath
Urgent Care
Urgent Care centers are staffed by physicians, and have lab & radiology services available.
Suggested for the treatment of:
•
Sprains and Strains
•
Minor Cuts and Burns
•
Simple Broken Bones
•
Contusions
•
Animal/Insect Bites
Retail Mini-Clinics
Mini-Clinics are staffed by Physician Assistants and Nurse Practitioners. Many Mini-Clinics are located within a pharmacy so you can be seen and get medications all in one location.
Suggested for the treatment of:
•
Cold and Flu Symptoms
•
Minor Cuts and Burns
•
Strep Throat
•
Bladder or Kidney Infections
•
Routine Immunizations
Virtual Care
A virtual visit lets you see a doctor via your smartphone, tablet, or computer.
Suggested for the treatment of:
•
Pink eye
•
Allergies & Rashes
•
Bronchitis & Sore Throats
•
Fever, Coughs & Colds
•
Seasonal Flu & COVID-19
•
Bladder Infections
•
Diarrhea
•
Stomach Aches
Primary Care Physicians
Go to a doctor’s office when you need preventive or routine care. Your primary doctor can access your medical records, manage your medications, and refer you to specialists, if needed.
Suggested for the treatment of:
•
General Health Management
•
Checkups & Physicals
•
Preventive Services
•
Minor Skin Conditions
•
Routine Vaccinations & Immunizations
Stand-Alone ER Warning!
Beware of emergency rooms that resemble freestanding urgent care centers, as they can lead to unexpected high costs. These ERs may look similar to urgent care centers but charge significantly more for services and include hefty facility fees. To avoid surprise medical bills always check the facility's designation and ask about costs before receiving treatment, especially for non-life-threatening issues.
