Right Care, Right Cost…

Not feeling well or suffering an injury? Chances are good that you or a loved one may need medical advice during times like these. Many people believe that visiting the emergency room (ER) is the quickest way to get treated when they are ill or injured. ERs often have long waits and can be expensive, especially if the care is for minor or less serious conditions. The good news is that you have more options to find the care you need. As a patient, you have many good options for choosing timely, affordable care for whatever ails you.

Virtual Visits
Virtual Visits link you with a healthcare professional via your smartphone, tablet, or computer. You do not even have to leave the comfort of your home! Virtual visits are ideal for minor medical concerns and are a low-cost option for care. They require an appointment but are convenient to schedule through MyChart or the Providence App.

Office Visits
Office Visits with a primary care physician also require an appointment but may be scheduled the same day. This is another low-cost option for those who prefer an in-person visit. Call your doctor’s office or schedule through MyChart or the Providence App.

Urgent Care
Medical attention for more serious but non-life-threatening conditions can be found in your local Urgent Care on a walk-in basis, no appointment is needed. You can call ahead to determine the length of your wait. This option may be more expensive than the visits mentioned above. Ailments such as broken bones, sprains and strains, dizziness, nausea and vomiting, strep throat, allergic reactions, and flu or covid related symptoms would qualify for this level of care.

Emergency Department
And finally, emergency rooms are designed to treat patients with serious or life-threatening conditions. These include chest pain, severe bleeding, seizures, difficulty breathing, or sudden vision loss. Because emergency room personnel prioritize critical patients, patients with less serious medical problems tend to have longer wait times. Care in the Emergency Department is the most costly of your options.

Download and review our P.A.U.S.E. Plan to consider your options the next time you or a loved one needs medical attention. From low-cost treatment to convenient and timely appointments, you can find the care you need where and when you need it most.