NEED TO SEE A DOCTOR FAST?

Know your options. There are other choices besides the emergency room that can save you time and money.

The ER is the best choice if you’re dealing with a life-threatening emergency. But if you have a medical problem that may not be an actual emergency, like a back pain, stomach cramps, a sprained ankle, ear pain or other common health issues – you have other choices for care besides the ER.

You have a Health Advocate available 24/7 who can help you figure out the best place to get care for your symptoms. Just call your Health Advocate at the number on your BCBSIL member ID card.§

Remember – Virtual Visits is Available 24/7

You can consult with a doctor by phone, online video or mobile app. Virtual Visits* can be a better option than going to the emergency room or urgent care center. Contact Virtual Visits online at MDLIVE.com/bcbsil or call (888) 676-4204.

There are a lot of different places to get care. Learn the differences so there are no surprises. When you do get care, be sure to use in-network providers, where you will usually pay less.

Doctor’s Office Average In Network Cost: $ Hours: Usually Monday-Friday, daytime hours. May offer telehealth services. Good for: Common health issues like cough, sinus pain, sore throat, pink eye, rash and more

Virtual Visits Average Cost: $ Hours: 24/7 Good for: Common health issues like cough, sinus pain, sore throat, pink eye, rash and more

Retail Health Clinic Average In Network Cost: $ Hours: Similar to store hours. Can be found near pharmacies in grocery and drug stores. Good for: Common health issues like cough, sinus pain, sore throat, pink eye, rash and more

Urgent Care Clinic Average In Network Cost: $$ Hours: Usually open 7 days a week, daytime and evenings and holidays Good for: Health issues that are not life-threatening but need attention as soon as possible. Pediatric Urgent Care clinics are available in some areas as well.

Hospital Emergency Room Average In Network Cost: $$$ Hours: 24/7/365 Good for: Chest pain, trouble breathing, bleeding, signs of stroke, broken bones and other serious health problems.

Know the Difference Between a Hospital ER, Urgent Care and a Freestanding ER

Freestanding ERs can look a lot like Urgent Care or Hospital Emergency Rooms but they aren’t. Going to a Freestanding ER could result in you being responsible for a big bill (or several bills). In some cases, you might even be sent to a Hospital ER for care because Freestanding ERs do not have the same ability to care for serious health issues as Hospital ERs which are actually attached to a hospital.

Not sure where to go for care? Call your Health Advocate at the number on your BCBSIL member ID card. They can help you find an in-network provider fast.

If you need emergency care, call 911 or seek help from any doctor or hospital immediately.