Where should I go for health services?

If you’re experiencing a medical emergency, call 911 or go to the nearest emergency room

Primary care provider (PCP)

In most cases, when you need care or treatment, your best option is to make an appointment with your PCP. Here are some general guidelines for what to do when you need care or have questions:

Your PCP should be your first and best option whenever possible. See your PCP to:

  • Get a checkup
  • Get urgent or nonemergency care
  • Ask general questions about your health
  • Get a referral to see a specialist if required by your plan

If you need help choosing a PCP, please call the number on the back of your member ID card or visit our Doctor Search online.

Convenient care centers - $

Consider using your local Convenient Care Center when you need routine, non-urgent health services outside your PCP’s office hours. Convenient Care Centers are staffed by nurse practitioners and physician assistants and can:

  • Diagnose and prescribe medication to treat strep throat, pinkeye, and infections of the ears, nose, and throat
  • Administer routine vaccinations for flu, pneumonia, pertussis, and more

Urgent care center - $$

Consider an Urgent Care Center when your PCP is not available and you need care quickly, but your care may not require a hospital setting. Urgent Care Centers are growing in numbers and are staffed by qualified doctors to treat:

  • Head colds, ear or throat infections, stomach pain, fever, or headache (walk-in service for after-hours care)
  • Minor trauma (e.g. eye injuries, or cuts and burns that do not respond to basic first aid)
  • Back/muscle pain, strain, or sprain that cannot wait for PCP hours
  • Any nonlife-threatening illness or injury (broken bones)
  • Sprains with swelling and discoloration
  • Ear infections associated with severe pain, fever, or discharge from ear

911 or emergency room - $$$$

Call 911 or go to your nearest hospital emergency room if you think you have a medical condition which could endanger life or limb if not treated immediately. Some examples are:

  • Chest or upper abdominal pain or pressure 
  • Uncontrollable bleeding or problems breathing
  • Allergic reactions
  • Fainting, sudden dizziness, weakness
  • Changes in vision
  • Confusion or changes in mental status
  • Loss of sensation or movement in a limb
  • Severe pain
  • Suicidal feelings
  • Difficulty speaking
  • Any other symptoms that require immediate medical attention