Beware of the Costs of Freestanding ERs

When you or a family member gets sick or hurt, chances are good it will happen when your doctor's office is closed.

In the heat of the moment, you may head to an after-hours care facility closest to you. Makes sense, right? In reality, where you go for care makes a difference. If you visit a free-standing emergency room, you may be in for a costly surprise. 

Be sure to carefully consider all your choices for non-emergency care. Unless it is life threatening, an urgent care center is a good place to start.

These centers handle health issues that aren’t emergencies, but need immediate attention. Some examples include:

• A cut that needs stitches
• A sprained ankle
• The flu
• An ear infection

Beware of Look a Likes

Freestanding ERs found in strip malls and other smaller buildings often look like walk-in clinics and urgent care centers, but charge prices that are more in line with a hospital ER.

There are several reasons your out-of-pocket costs are likely to be more at a freestanding ER. They may not contract with your insurance company. They may say they take your health plan but forget to mention that you may not get "in network" benefits because the facility is actually out of network.

Where You Go Matters

Protect your wallet. Get care in the right setting for the care you need. In a true health emergency, seek immediate help at the nearest emergency facility. When your care is simply urgent, think about all your choices.

Consider calling your doctor first for help (even after hours and weekends). Depending on your doctor's service options, you may even be able to get care through telemedicine. Ask questions until you get the answers you need to handle your health concerns.

To get help finding the nearest urgent care clinic, use the Blue Cross and Blue Shield of Texas smartphone app or call the number on your member ID card.