Understanding regular vs. emergency health care

Published on May 21, 2020

It’s almost always best to get routine care and recommended

When to see your primary care provider

• You’ll see your primary care provider both when you’re sick and when you’re well for regular care. They’ll get to know you and help track your health over time.
• You can get primary care providers in doctors’ offices, clinics, and health centers nationwide.
• Before you schedule your first appointment, contact your health plan to see how much you’ll have to pay for a primary care visit. The copayment for your visit may cost you between $0 and $50.

When to seek emergency care

• You should go to the emergency room only when you’re injured or very sick. You may wait several hours before you’re seen, and you’ll likely pay a larger
  copayment

  A fixed amount ($20, for example) you pay for a covered health care service after you've paid your deductible.

  ,
  co-insurance

  The percentage of costs of a covered health care service you pay (20%, for example) after you've paid your deductible.

  and have to meet your
  deductible

  The amount you pay for covered health care services before your insurance plan starts to pay. With a $2,000 deductible, for example, you pay the first $2,000 of covered services yourself.

  before your health plan helps pay your costs.
• Providers in the emergency room probably won’t have access to your health records.
• Always in a life-threatening or emergency situation, call 9-1-1.

See other differences between regular and emergency care.