Read this post for a quick guide on where to find care from quick virtual visits to same-day emergencies and everything in between.

Guide to Getting Care

Knowing where to go for care, and when, can save time and money. It also helps you get appropriate care, at the right time, and in the right place. Here’s a quick summary:

  • Emergency room (ER) for serious or life-threatening emergencies.
  • Urgent care (non-emergency) for same-day, non-life-threatening issues.
  • Doctor’s office (primary care) for ongoing and preventive care.
  • Telemedicine (virtual care) for quick, convenient help with common illnesses and non-emergencies.

Emergency Room

The emergency room is for severe, sudden, or life-threatening conditions. ERs are open 24 hours a day, 365 days a year. If you are having a medical emergency, call 911 or go to the nearest emergency room immediately. Use for chest pain, fainting, uncontrolled bleeding, broken bones, slurred speech, deep cuts, and fever over 103 degrees F.

Typical cost: $1,500 to $3,000

Urgent Care

Urgent care is for when you need help today, but it’s not a life-threatening emergency, and you are unable to see your regular doctor. Use for sprains, sore throat, cold, flu, ear pain, small cuts, nausea, abdominal pain, or vomiting.

Typical cost: $100 to $300

Doctor’s Office

A visit to your doctor’s office is your best option when you need care soon, but it’s not an emergency. Your doctor can address most health concerns and already knows your history and medications. Your doctor’s office is a great option for cold and flu symptoms, chronic cough, sinus infections, pink eye, minor cuts, Sore throat, mild urinary tract infections, and ongoing condition management.

Typical cost: $90 to $160

Telemedicine

Telemedicine lets you connect with a doctor or other provider by phone, video or app from the comfort of your home. If you are enrolled in a Blue Cross of Idaho medical plan, you have access to Teladoc with flexible, same-day scheduling. Teladoc is a good option for cold and flu symptoms, mild respiratory infections, allergies, ear infections, and urinary tract infections. You can also access Teladoc for mental health virtual visits, dermaology and nutrition services. Teladoc learn more.

Cost: $20 copay

Kaiser members have access to clinician visits by phone or video and e-visits, no appointment needed. Kaiser learn more.