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Urgent care centers are now much more common. And you’ll find retail clinics in many drug stores and supermarkets. That makes it more convenient than ever to get the care you need when you need it. But how do you know if it’s better to see your primary care provider (PCP) — even if that means waiting to get an appointment? Or whether you can’t wait at all, and it’s time to head to urgent care — or even the emergency room (ER)?  

Each of these facilities offers a different level of care and expertise. Knowing those differences can help you make the best decision for your health in the moment. And may save you time and money. If you need help deciding where to go for care, answer these quick questions and follow the steps below. 

 

You have the support of a personal care team

Your Aetna care team is here to help you make the most of your plan. They can help you schedule appointments, develop a personalized care plan, understand your medications and more.

Meet your care team

Meet your care team

1. Do you have a life-threatening condition?

a. Yes: Go to the ER or call 911 

Some symptoms that may point to a life-threatening condition include:  

• Slurred speech
• Chest pain
• Trouble breathing
• Uncontrollable bleeding
• Major broken bones
• A head injury
• Sudden loss of vision or numbness
• Seizures 

b. No: Proceed to the next step

2. Can you wait to see your PCP?

a. Yes: Contact your PCP or care team for non-urgent needs such as managing chronic conditions, medication refills, easing symptoms of a common illness like cold or flu or getting a routine physical.

b. No: Consider the following options when you need fast treatment for a non-critical issue:

• Urgent care: Go for a fever, nausea, fractures, stitches, rashes and other more serious conditions that don’t require the ER. Urgent care clinics have a doctor on staff and can often diagnose and treat patients.

• Retail clinic: Visit for minor ailments or things your PCP can’t do over the weekends or after business hours. This may include cold and flu symptoms like a sore throat, blood pressure checks, medication refills, immunizations and minor injuries, like a sprained elbow. Some retail clinics also have a specialty area, such as optometry, orthopedics or mental health. 

  Check out MinuteClinic® at CVS^®. With MinuteClinic Virtual Care^®, you can speak to a board-certified nurse practitioner or physician associate within minutes, if you live in a participating state. Other walk-in clinic options may be available, such as Walgreens, Kroger and Costco.

• 24-Hour Nurse Line:* Our team of licensed nurses can help you with non-urgent health concerns. For instance, managing a chronic health condition or offering guidance on where to go for care. Call them anytime at 1-855-493-7019 (TTY:711).

*While only your doctor can diagnose, prescribe or give medical advice, the 24-Hour Nurse Line can provide information on a variety of health topics.