When dealing with serious illness or injury, most people think of the emergency room. However, there are many situations where an Urgent Care Center or Convenience Clinic would be a better choice. Emergency Rooms give priority to life-threatening conditions and injuries. Patients with less critical conditions, even if very serious, often endure long wait times and expensive costs for treatment that would have been faster and more affordable in a different clinical setting.
A few situations that require Emergency Room care include:
- Chest pains or symptoms of heart attack
- Seizures
- Poisoning
- Any symptom or injury that threatens the patient’s life
An Urgent Care Center is a better choice for:
- Asthma flare ups
- Minor cuts and burns
- Sprains
- Non-life-threatening illnesses and injuries
Convenience Clinics (like the CVS MinuteClinic) are best for:
- Colds & Infections
- Chickenpox
- Insect Bites
- Joint pain
Learn more about where to find the right medical care on Medical Mutual’s blog at https://www.medmutual.com/About-Medical-Mutual/Blog/Emergency-or-Not-Where-to-Turn-for-Medical-Care.aspx.
The Medical Mutual Nurse Line is available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week at 1-888-912-0636. Medical Mutual Customer Service can be reached at 1-800-382-5729.
Connect with the Employee Benefits team at 330-672-3107 or benefits@kent.edu.