We’ve all had ailments that have caused us to seek out expert medical advice and treatment. But with so many different types of healthcare facilities that exist, how do you know which type of facility is best for your particular problem? Some facilities are better suited for true emergencies. Others are better suited for urgent or non-life-threatening situations that still require treatment. However, not all facility types charge the same amount for the same treatment. Emergency rooms can cause you to quickly rack up a huge bill. Some other facility types might only charge a fraction of what the ER would for equivalent service. So how do you know which is best for your health while being conscientious of your bank account?
First, know that if you are having a true health emergency, you should call 911 and follow their instructions. In emergency situations, you must first do what is best for your health. However, if your situation is not an emergency, you might have the opportunity to make a decision on what facility would be the best option.
If you have health insurance, it would be wise to contact your health insurance carrier. Inquire about what facilities are in your network so that you can be sure not to receive an astronomical bill from an out-of-network facility.
Emergency Room vs Urgent Care
The following is a list of common potential emergencies that could constitute going to an emergency room provided by Wake Forest Baptist Hospital. This is not a complete list of ailments or conditions that are considered emergencies. As a rule, anything that could potentially threaten your life or cause a permanent impairment constitutes a visit to the emergency room.
Fainting or loss of consciousness
Chest pain
Shortness of breath or difficulty breathing
Severe abdominal pain
Severe headache
Fractures
Vehicle accidents
The level of care that you might need can vary greatly between an emergency facility and an urgent care facility. Urgent care centers are designed to treat minor illnesses and urgencies that are not life-threatening, such as treatment for the following:
Urinary tract infections
Bronchitis
Allergies
Cold and flu
Minor cuts
Minor pains
In some instances, the urgent care facility should refer you to an emergency facility if the staff physicians feel that your condition requires treatment that they are not equipped to offer.
It is important that if you have a minor health condition that you go to the appropriate facility to help prevent receiving a large medical bill. In some instances, a visit to your family practitioner might even suffice. However, the potential for an erroneous charge on a medical bill is possible at any healthcare facility. If you feel that you have been charged incorrectly or unfairly, it’s important that you take action as soon as possible. Contact that facility’s billing department and make your concerns known. If you cannot get a satisfactory resolution, contact a reputable medical billing advocate, such as Medical Billing Advocates of America. We can put you in touch with our Consumer Division at our sister company, Medical Recovery Services.
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