When you or a loved one needs medical attention, you want care that’s appropriate for the situation. You also don’t want to wait a long time or pay more out of pocket than necessary. 

It can be tempting to rush to the hospital when someone is hurting. But for situations that aren’t true emergencies, there might be other options that can save you time and money, such as: 

• An urgent care center.

• Your doctor’s office. 

• Blue CareOnDemand^SM Powered by MDLIVE video visits. 

Know the Signs of a True Emergency

Some situations are true medical emergencies. Call 911 or go to the hospital emergency department if someone has: 

• Stopped breathing. 

• A head injury with unconsciousness, fainting or confusion. 

• An injury to the neck or spine. 

• A severe burn. 

• Signs of a heart attack, such as severe chest pain or pressure. 

• A seizure. 

• Uncontrollable bleeding. 

• Broken bones. 

• Signs of a stroke, such as numbness of the face, arm and leg on one side of the body. 

• Become unable to speak, see, walk or move. 

• An unusual or bad headache. 

• Severe allergic reactions. 

• Ingested or inhaled poison. 

• A life-threatening injury or symptom. 

In the hospital, doctors have to prioritize these situations over less severe cases. So you wait longer if your situation isn’t a true emergency. You also may pay more. 

Less Urgent Situations

For situations that aren’t life-threatening, you’ll likely get faster, more cost-effective care in another setting. Consider an urgent care center, doctor’s office visit or Blue CareOnDemand^SM Powered by MDLIVE video visit if you have: 

• A cold. 

• Flu symptoms. 

• Earache. 

• Sore throat. 

• Migraine headache. 

• Low-grade fever. 

• Sprain, strain or back pain. 

• Minor injuries. 

• Cuts or wounds if bleeding is controlled. 

• Medical problem that’s not life-threatening but needs immediate attention. 

With Blue CareOnDemand, you can chat by phone or video with a licensed professional. Log in to My Health Toolkit^® to get started.