Use the ER Correctly

If you go to the emergency room (ER) for a health problem that is not an emergency, you may have to wait a long time to get care. This is because some people go to the ER for problems that their doctor could treat. If you go to the ER for problems that are not an emergency, you may be required to pay for part of the visit. This is called a copayment. You do not have a copayment when you go to your doctor's office.

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 you develop a problem like this, go to the ER or call 911. But the following are not emergencies:

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

For problems like these, always call your doctor first. Your doctor or the doctor on-call will help you decide if you need emergency care. He or she may schedule an office visit for you, give you directions over the phone or direct you to an urgent care center.