When you're facing a serious medical problem, you may find yourself at the emergency room (ER). While there, you'll need to answer questions about your medical history and health insurance, and you might have to make important decisions about tests and procedures. Being prepared can help you avoid huge medical bills and ensure you receive the best care possible. Here are five tips to navigate a medical emergency:
In some cases, you may be able to avoid a long wait and save money by going to an urgent care center instead of the ER. These centers can handle many illnesses and injuries that used to be treated only at an ER, such as:
Burns
Minor broken bones
Cuts that require stitches
However, for life-threatening conditions like seizures, serious head injuries, severe pain (which could indicate a heart attack or stroke), or concerning abdominal issues (like appendicitis), the ER is the right choice. If you're taking your child to an ER or urgent care clinic, try to use a pediatric center or one with pediatricians on staff.
Whether at an urgent care center or the ER, the doctor treating you will need accurate information to provide the best care. Be prepared to share your medical history, including:
A list of all medications, supplements, and antibiotics you're currently taking or have recently taken
Any allergies, especially to medications
Previous hospital stays and diagnoses
Past surgeries
Past or chronic illnesses
Family health history
Vaccines you've received
Names of any specialists you see
Store this information on your cell phone using a medical records app or write it down and keep it easily accessible.
The Affordable Care Act requires insurance companies to cover care you receive in the ER if you have an emergency medical condition, regardless of whether the hospital is in or outside of your insurance network. An emergency medical condition means your symptoms are severe enough that you believe your health will be in danger without immediate care. If possible, check with your usual doctor first.
While tests and imaging done in the ER can be crucial for diagnosing your condition, they can also be expensive. If you're able, ask your ER doctor if there's any risk in postponing tests until you can see your primary care doctor, who might determine they're unnecessary. If you do need the tests but it's not an emergency, they'll likely cost less in a doctor's office than in the ER.
Most of the care you receive at the ER should be charged at in-network rates. However, some providers, such as the ER doctor, a technician, or a specialist, might be outside your network and can bill you directly for the difference between what they charge and what your health plan pays. Most plans will cover all ER fees for true emergencies, but you may need to submit the bills to your insurance company yourself. Carefully review all ER bills and insurance reports.
By following these tips, you can navigate a medical emergency more effectively, ensuring you receive the best possible care while minimizing the financial impact. Remember, your health is the top priority, but being prepared and informed can help you make better decisions during a stressful situation.
For more information on handling medical emergencies, visit CDC's Emergency Preparedness and Response and the American College of Emergency Physicians.
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