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November 2008
Labor Priorities
Labor Priorities

Make sure your members use the ER correctly

Many members go to the ER for problems that their doctors could treat. If members go to the ER for problems that aren’t an emergency, it costs them more than going to their regular doctors.

An emergency is a problem that could result in death or serious problems if not treated right away. These are conditions such as chest pain, stroke, a severe burn or sudden difficulty breathing. If members develop a problem like this, they should go to the ER or call 911. But the following aren’t emergencies:

  • Chronic headaches
  • Colds, sore throats or flu symptoms
  • Earaches
  • Fevers

For problems like these, members should call their doctors first. Their doctors can help them decide if they need emergency care. A doctor may schedule an office visit, give directions over the phone or direct members to an urgent care center.

 

Last modified 11/06/09