WHERE TO GET CARE
Understand your options
When you need health care and can’t see your primary doctor, do you know how to choose the best option for you or your family? Here are some guidelines when considering where to get care.
LOWER SEVERITY
LOWER SEVERITY
- Cold or flu
- Earache
- Fever (under 104° F for most people)
- Seasonal allergies
- Minor skin conditions (rash, etc.)
- Sore throat
- Urinary tract infections
- Many are available 24/7; get seen quickly
- Lower cost per visit
- Available from your phone or computer
MODERATE SEVERITY
MODERATE SEVERITY
- Back or muscle pain
- Broken bones (not through the skin)
- Bronchitis, seasonal allergies, or flu
- Cuts and minor burns
- Diarrhea or vomiting
- Skin conditions
- Sprains or joint pain
- Urinary tract infections
- Many have evening & weekend hours
- Often fairly short wait times
- Moderate cost per visit
HIGH SEVERITY
HIGH SEVERITY
- Broken bone through the skin
- Chest pain or pressure/heart attack
- Head injuries, seizures, sudden paralysis, loss of consciousness
- High fever (104° F or higher)
- Pneumonia or shortness of breath
- Severe abdominal pain
- Uncontrolled bleeding
- Often open 24/7/365
- May not be attached to a hospital; look for a red EMERGENCY sign
- Highest cost; can have long wait times