Not every ache, fever, or fall means you need a trip to the emergency room (ER). Going to the ER when it’s not an emergency can take longer, cost more, and add extra stress.
Lucie Tam, HMSA’s clinical coordinator for Quality & Performance Improvement, says, “Start with your primary care provider (PCP).” Know how to get in touch with your PCP during office hours and before or after their office is open. Most PCPs have several ways to get in touch, such as by phone or text, or an app or patient portal.
“If you can’t get an appointment with your PCP right away,” Tam adds, “Telehealth, such as HMSA’s Online Care®, is a great alternative. With Online Care, you can talk to a doctor anytime, anywhere in Hawaii 24/7.”
Contact your PCP or HMSA’s Online Care for concerns about:
- Cold or flu symptoms.
- Ear pain or mild fever.
- Mild allergic reactions.
- Small cuts or scrapes.
- Mild back pain, sprains, or strains.
- Feeling stressed, anxious, or down.
If you need help quickly but it’s not an emergency, urgent care is your next stop. These clinics handle problems that can’t wait for a regular appointment but don’t need the ER.
Urgent care can help with:
- Minor fractures without open wounds.
- Sprains, strains, or small injuries.
- Minor cuts that might need stitches.
- Sore throat or pink eye.
- Dizziness, headaches, or migraines.
- Back pain.
- Urinary tract infections.
- Getting out small, nondangerous objects stuck in the body.
Andrew Perry, M.D., a pediatrician, emergency medicine doctor, and HMSA medical director, reminds us that some symptoms need immediate attention. “If your symptoms are severe or could be life-threatening, don’t hesitate – call 911 or go to the nearest emergency room.”
Go to the ER or call 911 for:
- Chest pain or trouble breathing.
- Sudden weakness, numbness, difficulty speaking, responding, or loss of balance.
- A severe or sudden headache or any other sudden, intense pain.
- Seizures.
- Serious allergic reactions.
- Deep wounds.
- Poison exposure or ingestion. The Hawaii Poison Center is available 24/7 at 1 800-222-1222 if you need guidance.
- Major burns.
- Major injuries and accidents, including head injuries with loss of consciousness or other behavior changes.
- Thoughts of suicide.
Making smart choices about your care
“Choosing the right place to go can save you time, money, and stress, and keeps emergency rooms open for people who really need them,” says Tam.
Watch the video below to learn more about choosing the right care for the situation:
Amwell is an independent company providing hosting and software services for HMSA’s Online Care platform on behalf of HMSA.
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