Summer Health Issues: Know Where To Go For Care

Summer is a season for fun and recreation, but sometimes unexpected health issues cut the fun short. Knowing where to go for care can help you get the right treatment quickly, avoid long waits, and prevent high medical bills. Here’s a breakdown of the kinds of places to get care and the advantages of each.

Primary Care Doctor: Good choice for non-urgent concerns

1. Best for regular check-ups and preventive care
2. Knows your medical history and can coordinate care
3. Helps manage long-term or chronic health conditions

Urgent Care Center: Good for quick care when it’s not an emergency

1. Treats issues like sore throats, sprains, small cuts, or pinkeye
2. You usually don’t need an appointment to get seen
3. Often open longer than other providers’ offices— many have regular evening and weekend hours

Emergency Room: For serious or life-threatening conditions.

Go to the ER or call 911 for:

1. Trouble breathing
2. Chest pain
3. Heavy bleeding or deep cuts
4. Broken bones
5. Signs of stroke (sudden confusion, trouble speaking)
6. Drug or alcohol overdose

Keep your wallet healthy by planning ahead

Choosing in-network care can help you avoid large and/or surprise bills and may keep your out-of-pocket costs lower. Always check with your insurance plan to make sure any provider or facility you plan to use is covered.

If you’re going on vacation, look up in-network care near your destination and bring those addresses and phone numbers with you when you travel. Being prepared can help you stay calm if a health issue happens.

This advice was brought to us by our friends at Health Advocate.  If you need help thriving in your everyday life, check out our Life Assistance program.