Making the Most of Your Health Plan

Where Do I Go When I Need Care?

Understanding your network

The type of health plan you choose determines the network of providers you can visit. Doctors and hospitals in your plan's network are in-network providers. Those not in your plan's network are out-of-network providers. You may pay more for out-of-network services, and some may not be covered at all.

Know your options — before you need them

When you need care, your primary care physician (PCP) can best assess your condition. If your PCP is unavailable, you may have other options for in-network care: retail clinics, urgent care centers, and telemedicine. Use the tool below to learn more about each option. In the case of a life-threatening illness or injury, always go to the nearest emergency room.

Consult a physician from your phone or computer.

Some plans do not include coverage for telemedicine services. Check your benefits booklet to determine if telemedicine is currently available for you.

- Cost:
- Time:
- Severity:

Best For

- allergic reactions (minor)
- bronchitis
- cold, cough, and flu
- digestive issues
- eye pain or irritation
- fever
- headache (minor)
- skin conditions
- sinus pain
- sore throat
- urinary tract infection
- vomiting

Get quick, convenient care for illnesses and vaccines.

- Cost:
- Time:
- Severity:

Best For

- allergic reactions (minor)
- bronchitis
- burns (minor)
- cold, cough, and flu
- cuts and scrapes
- digestive issues
- ear pain
- eye pain or irritation
- fever
- headache (minor)
- insect bites
- sinus pain
- sore throat
- urinary tract infection
- vaccinations
- vomiting

Use this faster, less expensive choice if you get sick or hurt.

- Cost:
- Time:
- Severity:

Best For

- allergic reactions (minor)
- animal bites
- asthma attack (minor)
- cold, cough, and flu
- back pain
- broken bones (minor)
- bronchitis
- burns (minor)
- digestive issues
- ear pain
- eye pain or irritation
- fever
- headache (minor)
- infections
- injuries (minor)
- insect bites
- sinus pain
- skin conditions
- sore throat
- sprains and strains
- stitches
- urinary tract infection

Go to the emergency room (ER) in case of a life-threatening or severe sickness or injury.

- Cost:
- Time:
- Severity:

Best For

- high fever with headache or stiff neck
- loss of consciousness
- major injury
- overdose
- poisoning
- seizure
- severe allergic reaction
- signs of heart attack or stroke
- spine injury
- sudden severe headache
- suicidal thoughts
- trouble breathing

Information on this site is provided for informational purposes and is not meant to substitute for the advice provided by your own physician or other medical professional. You should not use the information contained herein for diagnosing or treating a health problem or disease, or prescribing any medication. If you have, or suspect that you have, a medical problem, promptly contact your health care provider.

Find a provider

Find a doctor, urgent care center, or hospital near you.
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Need help choosing a health plan?

Health insurance is more than just a way to get more affordable check-ups and prescriptions. Some plans offer valuable extras, like free nutrition counseling, preventive care, and even reimbursements for healthy activities.