Save the ER for Emergencies

The list of Walk-In Centers has been updated recently, and new facilities are being added around the state.  These facilities can be a good option if you need treatment for an injury or illness and can’t see your primary care doctor, but it’s not an emergency.  Walk-In Centers take patients without an appointment and are usually open longer hours, including evenings and weekends.

The doctors and nurses at these facilities can help you with all kinds of things such as minor sprains and strains, sports injuries, sore throats, earaches and the flu.  Some centers do x-rays or run other tests on-site and can let you know quickly if you need more specialized care.

The co-pay for a Walk-In Center is equal to that of a specialist co-pay, versus the much higher cost of an emergency room.  Effective January 1, 2020 the copay for services received at an urgent care facility was reduced to match the copay for services received at a walk-in center.  Instead of a $150 or $200 Emergency Room copay, members who receive care at an in-network walk-in or urgent care center will pay a specialist copay – between $20 and $40 per visit, depending on your medical plan.

Not sure if it’s an emergency?  Let a Nurse help you decide.  Here’s an emergency rule of thumb: Call 911 or go to the nearest ER if you think delaying care could put your health a serious risk.  If you’re still not sure where to go for care, call the 24/7 Nurseline at 1-800-607-3262.  Registered Nurses are available anytime day or night to help you decide.

List of In-Network Walk-In Clinics and Urgent Care facilities