How to choose the right type of medical care

Where you go for care depends on what kind of medical care you'll need. It’s also good to know care options and their costs. Look at the examples in the chart below to get a sense of the options you may choose. Note: your virtual care options may depend on your health plan.

  Urgent care Emergency room (ER) Virtual care Primary care provider (PCP) Retail/Walk-in clinic
Type of care you’re looking for Your issue isn't an emergency, but your PCP isn't available Care for life threatening and/or very serious conditions Virtual treatment options or care from anywhere Preventive and routine care Quick treatment for minor illnesses or basic screenings
Common conditions and services
  • Sprains
  • Minor broken bones (e.g. finger)
  • Minor burns
  • Minor infections
  • Earache
  • Strep throat
  • Diagnostic tests, if needed
  • Heavy bleeding 
  • Chest pain
  • Major burns 
  • Difficulty breathing 
  • Broken bones or spinal injuries 
  • Progressive confusion or slurred speech
  • Diagnostic tests, if needed
  • Minor medical care
  • Mental health care 
  • Physical, occupational or speech therapy
  • Chiropractic care 
  • Vision or hearing services
  • Diagnostic tests, if needed
  • Checkups 
  • Immunizations 
  • Minor illnesses
  • Minor injuries
  • Diagnostic tests, if needed
  • Skin rash 
  • Routine vaccines
  • Minor injuries
  • Earache
  • Sports physicals
Open during regular office hours




Open outside regular office hours




When to go to urgent care

Urgent care treats illnesses and injuries that need care soon but are not emergencies. They can help with minor injuries or illnesses. Urgent care may use simple lab tests, such as urine tests, pregnancy tests or rapid strep tests. They may also use X-rays.1, 2

Urgent care can help when your PCP is away or can’t see you soon. Going to urgent care does not replace seeing your PCP. If you get sick after regular office hours, urgent care may be faster than waiting in a hospital emergency room.2

A main difference between urgent care and ERs is that urgent care centers usually don’t have the same equipment or staff as ERs. They typically don’t have advanced tests, such as CT scans or ultrasounds. If you need more serious care, urgent care staff may send you to a hospital emergency room.1, 2

When to go to the emergency room (ER)

ERs are where you should go for serious medical problems. They are open 24 hours a day, every day of the year. ERs have special equipment and trained doctors, physician assistants and nurses to help with many adult and child emergencies.1

For serious or life-threatening situations, call 911 or go to the nearest ER. If there is an emergency and you’re not sure you need an ambulance, call 911. They can help you decide. You may need an ambulance if someone:3

  • Has chest pain, trouble breathing, sudden confusion or signs of a stroke
  • Is choking, has stopped breathing or needs CPR
  • Had a car crash, fall or other accident and moving them could make the injury worse
Watch a video to learn more about when to go to the ER

When to use virtual care

Virtual visits are a good choice if you don't need to see a provider in person. You can connect with a provider using your computer, tablet or smartphone — anytime, anywhere.

Virtual visits can be a convenient way to get treatment options and even prescriptions for medications, if needed. For more serious problems, you may need to go to a clinic or hospital.

Learn more about virtual care visits for members with health plans through work

When to see your primary care provider (PCP)

Your PCP is your go-to for routine checkups, preventive care and minor illnesses. With in-depth knowledge of your health history, they’re the best place to start. 

If you’re ever unsure about where to go, you can always call your PCP, check your health plan’s website or call the number on your health plan ID card to speak with an advocate.

Understanding your care options can help you get the right care, at the right time.

Watch a video to learn more about the benefits of having a PCP

When to go to a retail/walk-in clinic

A retail or walk-in clinic is a good option for minor illnesses, such as earaches or rashes. These clinics are typically staffed with nurse practitioners or physician assistants who can treat minor injuries, such as minor cuts or sprains. They’re also a good option for routine vaccines, such as the flu shot.

Student athletes who need a sports physical can typically get a quick physical exam at a retail or walk-in clinic without an appointment. These clinics are typically faster and cheaper than urgent care or the ER.

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